What Is National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic?
This observance in Poland is dedicated to commemorating the victims of the Volhynia massacres. These events, occurring primarily between 1943 and 1945, involved the systematic killing of ethnic Poles and other minority groups by Ukrainian nationalist formations in the eastern territories of the Second Polish Republic. The Polish parliament officially recognised these actions as a genocide.
The day serves as a national recognition of the atrocities committed and aims to preserve the memory of those who perished. It also seeks to promote historical truth and reconciliation. The remembrance highlights the complex and often tragic history between Poles and Ukrainians in the 20th century.
History and Origins of National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic
The historical context for this day lies in the ethnic cleansing operations carried out by the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and its armed wing, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), against the Polish population of Volhynia and Eastern Galicia. These actions, which commenced in 1943, aimed to remove the Polish presence from territories that Ukrainian nationalists claimed for an independent Ukraine. The attacks peaked on 11 July 1943, when UPA units simultaneously assaulted numerous Polish villages in Volhynia.
The brutal nature of the killings, which included widespread torture and mutilation, led to an estimated 100,000 Polish deaths. Other victims included Jews, Armenians, Czechs, and Ukrainians who opposed the violence. In 2016, the Polish Sejm (parliament) passed a resolution designating 11 July as the “National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic,” officially classifying the events as genocide.
How National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic Is Celebrated
In Poland, this day is marked by various commemorative events and ceremonies. These typically involve official representatives of the state, including the President, Prime Minister, and members of parliament. Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at monuments dedicated to the victims of the Volhynia massacre, both in Poland and at former Polish territories now within Ukraine.
Educational institutions and historical organisations also play a role in raising awareness. Conferences, exhibitions, and lectures are organised to inform the public about the historical context and consequences of the genocide. The observance fosters a collective remembrance of the victims and a commitment to historical accuracy.
When Is National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic?
The National Day of Remembrance is observed annually on 11 July. This date was specifically chosen to commemorate the coordinated attacks on Polish villages in Volhynia that occurred on 11 July 1943. That day is considered the bloodiest day of the massacres, symbolising the peak of the genocidal campaign.
The date is fixed and follows the Gregorian calendar system. It is consistently observed on this specific day each year in Poland.
National Day of Remembrance of Victims of the Genocide Committed by Ukrainian Nationalists on Citizens of the Second Polish Republic Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Observance |
| Date | 11 July (Fixed) |
| Countries | 1 country (Poland) |
| Also known as | Volhynia Genocide Remembrance Day, Remembrance Day of the Victims of the Volhynia Massacre |
| Calendar system | Gregorian |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of 11 July for this remembrance day?
11 July marks the approximate peak of the Volhynia massacres in 1943, when Ukrainian nationalist forces launched coordinated attacks on over 100 Polish villages. This date was chosen to commemorate the most intense period of these events.
Which group is officially recognised as responsible for the genocide?
The Polish parliament officially attributes the genocide to Ukrainian nationalists, specifically units of the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). These groups targeted ethnic Poles and other minorities.
Is this a public holiday in Poland?
No, the National Day of Remembrance is an observance rather than a public holiday in Poland. Government offices, businesses, and schools operate as usual, though remembrance ceremonies are held.