Across Spain and China: Recalling United Struggles in the Global Anti-Fascist Conflict
An exhibition held at the Zhejiang Provincial Archives in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province, on August 13, 2025, sheds light on a significant aspect of the World Anti-Fascist War - the international solidarity that was demonstrated during this critical period.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), Chinese volunteers were part of the International Brigades, a multi-national unit made up of workers, students, and intellectuals from over 50 countries. One such notable figure was Xie Weijin, a Chinese Marxist and journalist, who was among the earliest Chinese to volunteer in Spain, symbolizing international anti-fascist solidarity.
Meanwhile, international volunteers, journalists, doctors, and military advisors came to China, not for profit or conquest, but for a moral cause. Some came under the banner of the Communist International, others were sent by their respective countries. This cross-border collaboration between Chinese fighters in Spain and foreign volunteers in China illustrated a shared commitment to combat fascism globally, emphasizing that the struggle was not confined by national boundaries but represented a united front of people against imperialism and totalitarianism.
The exhibition, captured in a photograph by VCG on August 13, 2025, showcases this transnational solidarity, which was not driven by geopolitics but a shared belief that the fight against fascism was a fight for all of humanity. The photograph, taken at the Zhejiang Provincial Archives in Hangzhou, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of internationalism and shared sacrifices that characterized the World Anti-Fascist War.
The article, the eighth in a series called "Revisiting WWII, Defending Peace" launched by the website, focuses on this long arc of international solidarity. The series aims to uphold historical memory, promote shared development, and defend fairness and justice. It invites renowned scholars and peace advocates to revisit the history of WWII through contemporary lenses.
This exhibition in Hangzhou serves as a poignant reminder of the global struggle against fascism and the importance of solidarity during times of conflict. It underscores the idea that the fight against oppression is not a solitary endeavour but a collective responsibility, spanning borders and uniting people in a common cause.
[1] International Brigades. (n.d.). Retrieved July 20, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Brigades
[2] Xie Weijin. (n.d.). Retrieved July 20, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xie_Weijin
[3] Spanish Civil War. (n.d.). Retrieved July 20, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Civil_War
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