Children, Women, and the Elderly Among Those Killed: National Memory Institute Head Addresses Exhumations in Poland.

Why Search Efforts Matter in Both Ukraine and Poland

According to Espreso.tv: Oleksandr Alfiоrov, who leads the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory, has stressed how critical it is to carry out search operations and exhumations in Ukraine and Poland. He emphasized the need to restore the identities of those killed during World War II, calling it a vital task for both nations. These efforts aim to recover and honor the names of victims whose stories have been lost to time.

These search activities hold deep significance not just for Ukraine, but also for the Polish state and its people. Alfiоrov pointed out that the victims include children, women, and elderly individuals who were killed by Polish communists or other collaborators of the authoritarian regime that once governed Poland. These historical realities demand attention and proper remembrance for those who perished.

Joint Work to Restore Memory

The head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory also expressed frustration that Poland does not fully acknowledge the institute’s role in granting exhumation permits.

“As the head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory, I find it troubling that the Polish side fails to appreciate our institute’s work in providing exhumation authorizations,” Alfiоrov stated.

As a result, search operations and exhumations remain pressing issues that require joint efforts from both countries to restore the memory of those who died during World War II. This ongoing work is a cornerstone of building a shared understanding of the past.

The challenge of locating and commemorating World War II victims is a key element in Ukrainian-Polish relations. Collaborative projects in this area can help not only to achieve historical justice but also to improve mutual understanding between the two nations. It is essential that both sides continue working together to ensure proper remembrance for all victims, regardless of their nationality.