Vaclav Havel, a Man of Peace and a Fighter for Liberty

In the generation of political leaders following World War II, none stand out more than Vaclav Havel, the former freedom fighter and dissident who pushed forward at the right moment the civil disobedience movement against the Soviet regime in eastern Europe. His 1989 Velvet Revolution in Prague opened the way for the destruction of the Iron Curtain and freed eastern European countries held in the Soviet grip since WWII.

Havel, a former Czech president and man of letters, died Saturday at the age of 75. He was hailed by world leaders as a hero of liberty and democracy, and a pioneer in the reunification of Europe.

“Europe owes a profound debt to Vaclav Havel, who devoted his life to the cause of human liberty,” said British Prime Minister David Cameron. “During long years, the communists tried to defeat him and silence his voice, but he would not be reduced to silence.”

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that “he was a great European and his fight for liberty and democracy was as unforgettable as his great humanity. We Germans are particularly indebted to him,” she added, referring to the demolition of the Berlin Wall that led to the reunification of Germany.

“With the passing of Vaclav Havel, the Czech Republic has lost a great patriot, France has lost a friend, and Europe has lost one of its wise men,” said French President Nicolas Sarkozy.

Lech Walesa, former Polish president and himself a freedom fighter during the Soviet grip on eastern Europe, said, “Europe will miss him enormously. He was a great voice for liberty, democracy and for freeing Europe from the Soviet juggernaut.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu said, “Havel was a strong and courageous voice against totalitarianism and an inspiration for dissidents everywhere who are fighting for peace. He was a true friend of Israel.”

Dear readers, let us remember Vaclav Havel in our prayers and thoughts.

Let us remember that he was brave enough to be the voice of freedom when others were silent.

Let us remember that all great movements for human dignity and liberty begin with just one voice and that we were privileged to have Vaclav Havel among us when he was needed most.     

May we who remain be worthy of his legacy.

Rest in Peace.