Estonia is one of the smallest countries in Northeast Europe. Due to its location, it has been invaded and occupied throughout history. Estonia would not gain democratic independence until 1918, but this was short lived with the onset of World War… Read More
August 23 marks two of the most decisive moments in my nation’s history. August 23, 1939 is remembered as the day that the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact divided Europe between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. In my home of Estonia, this day… Read More
As war rages in Ukraine, the specter of a new era of captive nations looms across Europe’s frontline. This fear is something I knew all too well growing up under Soviet control in occupied Lithuania. My homeland’s oppression and march for independence is also why I know that we must continue to stand with the people of Ukraine—before it is too late.
As NATO leaders convene in my hometown of Washington, D.C. this month amid war in Europe, I find myself reflecting on the Alliance’s profound personal impact. Although Washington is now my home, I was born in Soviet-controlled Ukraine, a Captive Nation under the Iron Curtain.
VOC’s President and CEO, Dr. Eric Patterson, writes for Providence Magazine on the UN’s International Day of Conscience, urging the UN to use the day as an opportunity to stand against communism and all other forms of totalitarianism.
As the world continues to mourn the death of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny, VOC looks back on his legacy and remembers the plight of other courageous Russians who are still held political prisoners by Vladimir Putin.
VOC was honored to speak with Rep. Ben Toma, the Majority Leader in the Arizona House of Representatives, about his experience under the Ceaușescu regime in Romania.
Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute, Olivia Enos, writes for Forbes highlighting research from VOC’s Dr. Adrian Zenz, Senior Fellow and Director in China Studies, on the fight to end Uyghur forced labor.
Born in Soviet-occupied Lithuania in 1954, Boris Hoffman grew up hearing the brutal stories of Stalin’s Gulag from his family, friends, and neighbors. Raised by parents who refused to join the communist party, and grandparents whose farm was collectivized by the state… Read More
