As the UK commemorates the 80th anniversary of VE Day, new Focaldata poll findings for British Future show a strong public appetite for more inclusive historical recognition for soldiers from the Commonwealth.
The armies that fought to defeat Nazi Germany in 1945 were remarkably diverse, including Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims from the 2.5 million-strong Indian army, alongside forces from Africa and the Caribbean. Their involvement was crucial in major battles, sustaining military campaigns and providing intelligence and medical aid.
The research finds that the public think the Commonwealth contribution in the World Wars should be taught in schools and that raising awareness would be good for social cohesion.
- 86% of respondents agree that “we should commemorate all those who fought for Britain in the World Wars, regardless of where they came from” – with 64% strongly agreeing. Only 3% disagreed.
- 77% agree that remembering the shared wartime history of British and Commonwealth troops “can help build cohesion in today’s multi-ethnic society.”
- 81% agree that teaching children about the diversity of Britain’s wartime allies “can help them understand the multi-ethnic society we share today.”
Yet it also shows that more work is needed to raise awareness, with just 55% aware of the service of Indian soldiers and only a quarter of the public (24%) knowing that Jamaican and Kenyan forces fought for Britain too.
- Only 55% of respondents are aware that Indian soldiers fought for Britain in the World Wars.
- Just 24% are aware that soldiers from Kenya or Jamaica served.
- Only a third of the public (34%) are aware that Muslim soldiers fought for Britain in WW2 and 43% who know about the Sikh contribution.
Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future, said:
“There’s a strong public appetite for remembrance of our history to be inclusive. Forces from different backgrounds served together 80 years ago- people feel it’s only right to commemorate that service equally. Getting that right can help broaden our national story and forge a more shared sense of identity.”
“So, we should step up efforts to raise awareness for forces from South Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Nearly half of us don’t know about the Indian army’s role in WW2, when we’re talking about 2.5 million soldiers. Moments like VE Day 80 are an opportunity for their stories to be heard.”
The findings underline the importance of education and commemoration efforts that reflect the full spectrum of Britain’s wartime allies- not just for historical accuracy, but to strengthen cohesion in modern Britain.
A British Future webinar on 7th May, How can commemorating WW2 Commonwealth contribution help bring people together today?, heard from interfaith campaigner Julie Siddiqui MBE, historian Dr Robert Lyman MBE, founder of Black History Walks Tony Warner, Royal British Legion Community Engagement Officer Garry Stewart, and Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future. You can watch the webinar here.
