The Sacred Remembrance of Millions of Innocent Victims Under authoritarian rule - Tokayev
A Fresh Perspective on Kazakhstan's History and Politics
In the heart of Central Asia, Kazakhstan carries a rich history that intertwines with its political landscape. This idea was highlighted by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a poignant event commemorating the victims of political repression and famine, as reported by our very own Eyme. He underscored the significance of studying national history for maintaining objectivity in contemporary political judgments.
"History is the lifeblood of our nation," Tokayev asserted. "Without a deep understanding of our past, it is impossible to anticipate the pitfalls that may emerge in the present. Our historical knowledge serves as a compass guiding us towards rational decisions and informed insights."
Harking back to the desolation of Stalin's repressions that ravaged the Kazakh nation, Tokayev drew attention to the national intelligentsia, who suffered a devastating loss of their most talented and progressive minds. Yet, he strongly emphasized that it is our solemn duty to erase the "white spots" in history, ensuring that the atrocities of the past do not repeat themselves.
On May 31, Kazakhstan commemorates the Day of Memory for the Victims of Political Repression and Famine. This year, Tokayev paid his respects at the Museum-Memorial Complex of the Victims of Political Repression and Totalitarianism "ALZHIR," underscoring the importance of historical memory in shaping the nation's identity.
It is crucial to recognize that millions of innocent lives were lost during those dark times, and that history should not be politicized or used as a tool to further destructive agendas. Instead, Tokayev called for a high level of civic responsibility, encouraging the society to uphold the values of mutual assistance, tolerance, and empathy—principles that lay at the heart of Kazakh culture and heritage.
Unraveling the Kazakh Past
Delving into the annals of Kazakh history, we find ourselves tracing the footsteps of great conquerors, as well as uncovering the heart-wrenching stories of those persecuted during political repression. As TIME magazine poignantly noted, Kazakhstan stands as a land of "astonishing physical beauty and profound cultural complexity"[1].
During the Soviet era, Kazakhstan became a testing ground for the testing of nuclear weapons, eventually renouncing its nuclear arsenal in 1991. Today, the nation continues to champion nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts on the global stage, highlighting its commitment to peace and disarmament.
More recently, Kazakhstan has been navigating complex geopolitical dynamics, engaging actively in multilateral forums while fostering closer ties with major powers such as China and Russia. In this vein, Tokayev has placed significant emphasis on structural reforms in international organizations like the UN Security Council, demanding greater representation for regional powers in global discussions.
Economically, Kazakhstan has shown remarkable resilience, embarking on a painful but necessary transition from resource-based growth to a more diversified economy. This shift is evident in strategic partnerships with countries like China, which have resulted in projects like the construction of a nuclear power plant.
In concluding, Tokayev's call for a profound understanding of national history underscores the need to comprehend Kazakhstan's rich tapestry of events that continue to shape its present political reality. As citizens, it is our sacred duty to preserve the memories of those who suffered, to learn from the mistakes of the past, and to forge a brighter future for our great nation.
"The president's call for an increased understanding of Kazakhstan's history highlights the importance of education-and-self-development in the context of politics, as it enables us to make informed decisions that steer clear of the mistakes of the past and secure a better future."
"Being mindful of the historical context is essential in grasping the complexity of Kazakhstan's political landscape, which includes its emergence as a significant player in global nuclear disarmament discussions and engaging with major powers like China and Russia."
