Why Nations Need to Have Longer and Better Memories

Nations need to have longer and better memories

Forgive and forget is a common phrase that we often hear in personal relationships. It means to let go of past grievances and move on with a positive attitude. But can this principle be applied to nations as well? Can countries afford to forget the attacks, violations, and injustices that they have faced from other nations?

According to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the answer is no. In his speech at the India Today Conclave, he said that while in personal relationships, it may be a good approach to forget, forgive, and move on, nations need to have longer and better memories. He explained that forgetting the past would mean losing the lessons learned from history and repeating the same mistakes. He also said that forgiving the perpetrators would mean compromising the national security and sovereignty of the country.

I agree with his views and I think that nations need to have longer and better memories for the following reasons:

• To prevent future conflicts: Remembering past conflicts and their causes can help nations avoid similar situations in the future. It can also help them to resolve disputes peacefully and diplomatically, without resorting to violence or war.
• To protect national interests: Remembering past violations and injustices can help nations safeguard their national interests and values. It can also help them to assert their rights and responsibilities in the international arena, without being bullied or coerced by other nations.
• To foster mutual respect: Remembering past achievements and contributions can help nations appreciate their own strengths and potentials. It can also help them to respect the diversity and uniqueness of other nations, without being arrogant or ignorant.

Therefore, I believe that nations need to have longer and better memories, not to hold grudges or seek revenge, but to learn from the past, live in the present, and plan for the future. As EAM Jaishankar said, “We are not a forgiving people, we are a remembering people.”

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with this perspective? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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