Freedom: valuable and vulnerable
Freedom means that you can live your life the way you want, without others having undue influence on it. It is the ability to make your own choices, follow your own path and determine what you find important. Freedom is a basic right for everyone and important for a fair society.
In the Netherlands, we celebrate our freedom on May 5 since 1945. It is the day on which we reflect on the end of the German and Japanese occupation during World War II. Liberation Day is not only a holiday, but also a moment to reflect. We realize how important freedom is, that it can be vulnerable and that it is not self-evident.
On this day, we think not only of our own freedom, but also of people in other countries where freedom is not self-evident. Although the Second World War ended 80 years ago, there are still places in the world where war and oppression determine daily life.
That is why it is important to reflect on the value of freedom. Freedom requires attention and commitment. Not only to preserve our freedom, but also to support people who are still fighting for their rights. Liberation Day reminds us that freedom is something to celebrate, but also to protect and pass on to future generations.
