Dr Aliheydar Rzaev, 60, an editor of Aviamost, a Russian magazine published from Dubai, said the anniversary of October Revolution must not be for any events or celebrations but deep comprehension of what happened a hundred years ago.
“It is for the understanding of the most important lessons not only for Russia itself but for the world. These lessons are the value of unity, civic harmony, the ability of society to find compromises and not allow an extreme split in society in the form of civil war.
“The revolution evokes in memory the destruction of the state, brought Russia onto its knees and shed blood in a terrible civil war that was supported by foreign powers.
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“The February and October revolutions and the ensuing civil war require a comprehensive and objective study. If the February revolution became the basis for the possible birth of a democratic society in Russia, the October Revolution embodies a way away from the stability, traditions and authority of the state,” he said.
Elena Bensbaa, 40, a Russian author based in Abu Dhabi, said: “I believe that om this date, humanity has to celebrate not the anniversary of Revolution, but keep a minute of silence for millions of lost innocent lives. Some events in history have long-lasting impact, which affects the generations and future of the nations. All revolutions are like this. All tragedies are the consequences of such social troubles. Russian Revolution had influence and destructive impact on all social institutions. It changed the life of everyone in the land, earlier called Great Russian Empire.
“The economy was destroyed and people became poor and were dying of hunger. In 15 countries under the former USSR, for many people it is impossible to trace their ancestors or find out their origins and roots that were lost during and after the revolution. Even if old generation survived the political and economic turbulence, they were not allowed to talk to the children the truth.
“I believe the most important things that every human being has to receive in education are ethics, morality and consciousness. And leaders of all societies and nations have to make all efforts to work peacefully on all issues and resolve them step by step even if it will takes centuries. The great civilisations are built with evolution not a Revolution,” she said.
Yulia Kolpakova, a statistical specialist at a UAE federal authority, said: “A comment about the Revolution has a limitation that we judge the past from today’s experience and education. We may feel that it would not have happened in a particular manner. However, past is history and it happened as it did. I cannot say I totally agree with what took place. But it is the most important event in the history. It shaped our nation. We should never deny that fact as we cannot forget our past.
“Similar revolts are taking place all over the world now because ordinary people are not happy with what is happening in their countries due to apathy. Governments should focus more on basic needs of ordinary people. They do not want any luxury, but very basic needs of safety, regular income and means to support their families. If such needs are denied, people will revolt. That is the lesson from October revolution,” she said.
