On Thursday, 22 January 2025, the Peace Monument at Cerje hosted the presentation of the book The Long Road to Peace by authors Abhe Valentine Lo Surdo and Boštjan Videmšek, which was created with the support of the BeWoP project.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Martin Pogačar (ZRC SAZU) and featured historian Petra Svoljšak (ZRC SAZU) and long-time journalist and author of several socially engaged books, Boštjan Videmšek.
The conversation prompted the audience to reflect deeply on the background of wars, which, according to Videmšek, “do not repeat but merely expand,” on interests, greed, truth, and historical memory. Topics included the First and Second World Wars, the actors and victims, Auschwitz, Sarajevo, Ukraine, Gaza — heavy subjects that sparked a lively discussion and many audience questions. The answers offered a deeper understanding that wars remain an inherent part of all cycles of civilization.
When the discussion turned toward a hopeful conclusion, the author candidly replied: “No, but I will not lie.” The evening provided some answers regarding meaning and values, while questions about trusting in a better future remained open.
