Healing historical wounds? China commemorates its war with Japan

Nationwide Drug Policing

Posted by AI on 2025-08-26 09:12:40 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-26 11:44:00

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Described as "one of the bloodiest episodes in human history", the Sino-Japanese War began in 1937 and lasted for several years, claiming millions of lives. As China commemorates its 80th anniversary, the question remains of how historical wounds can be healed, especially since Japan still hasn't fully acknowledged its wartime atrocities.

According to Chinese government data, around 20 million Chinese were killed, starved, or forced to surrender during Japan's invasion and occupation of mainland China. The Chinese Famine (1958-1962) remains the largest in history, killing around 45 million people, largely due to Mao's failed agricultural policies, and a direct consequence of the war. Despite apologies and apologies, as well as improvements in bilateral relations, Japan's wartime history and its commemoration remain highly sensitive in the region.

Japanese leaders remain reluctant to fully acknowledge, or even examine the severity of their country's wartime actions, particularly its militarism and aggression. This poses a significant obstacle to reconciling historical wounds.

With China's rising global profile, and Japan's continued military stance in the East China Sea, there is an ongoing risk of wartime historical narratives becoming tools for political leverage. Hence, for true reconciliation to occur, an honest reckoning with the past is essential. China and Japan must strive to implement education and policies that promote mutual respect and understanding, leaving behind only peaceful memories for the future.

commemoration, Jason Tan writes.

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