Eluned Morgan MS, First Minister of Wales
Thursday 8 May 2025 will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. 80 years ago millions of people across Wales, the United Kingdom and the world, celebrated the end of the Second World War in Europe. This was a momentous milestone towards the final conclusion of fighting –which finally finished on 15th August 1945 in the Far East with VJ Day (Victory Over Japan).
I welcome the UK Government’s announcement on 4th March which sets out the plans for marking these historic dates. The Welsh Government is working closely with the UK Government and the other Devolved Governments to ensure that we all take this opportunity to remember the millions of brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in our armed services, as well as those who served on the home front, and celebrate the peace and democratic freedom they fought so hard for and which we continue to enjoy today, even in these uncertain times.
Over the Bank Holiday Monday 5th May, communities can come together and celebrate like people did 80 years ago – by holding street parties, community events and informal gatherings. This initiative is being supported across the UK, including Wales by the Together Coalition. A dedicated website, VE and VJ Day 80, has also been set up to promote and support commemorative events.
6th May will see historic buildings lit across the UK.
On May 7th, I will lead a National Service of Thanksgiving at Llandaff Cathedral, which will bring together senior Welsh, military, community, faith and political leaders alongside our veterans, Bevin Boys, Land Girls and other representatives of the home front to thank them for their service.
I know that this event is one that Members from all parties will be seeking to mark. On VE Day itself, alongside the UK National Commemoration in Westminster, we are working with the Royal British Legion on plans for a further event at the Senedd commemorating the fallen and celebrating the breadth of communities who were part of that fight for freedom.
Later in the year I will announce plans on how the Welsh Government plans to mark VJ Day.