Established in 1987, the Association Républicaine des Combattants pour l’Amitié, la Solidarité, la Mémoire, l’Antifascisme et la Paix (A.R.A.C) is a longstanding organization dedicated to the affirmation and defense of the rights of veterans, military and civilian victims of war, and their beneficiaries. Over more than three decades, A.R.A.C has committed itself to a mission that is both deeply historical and profoundly relevant in today’s world: preserving memory, fostering solidarity, combating fascism, and promoting peace.
Our Founding and Historical Context
The origins of A.R.A.C lie in the collective need to create a space where those who have experienced war firsthand, or who have been impacted by its consequences, could find recognition, support, and a voice. Founded in 1987, during a period of renewed interest in historical memory and the rights of veterans, our association responded to a growing awareness that many former combatants and victims—especially those not always recognized by official institutions—required dedicated advocacy and communal solidarity.
The late twentieth century saw major transformations in how societies remembered wars, particularly the world wars and post-colonial conflicts. It was also a time marked by the resurgence of political movements opposed to democratic values and peace. In this context, A.R.A.C sought not only to defend individual rights but also to promote a public culture rooted in antifascism, friendship, and social justice.
Who We Are
A.R.A.C is an independent, nonprofit association based in Vitry-sur-Seine, France. We bring together veterans, survivors, families of victims, and concerned citizens committed to republican values and human dignity. Our membership is diverse, encompassing people from all walks of life who share a common purpose: to affirm the rights and honor the memories of those affected by war.
Our name reflects the multifaceted nature of our commitment:
- Amitié (Friendship): Building bonds of solidarity among veterans, victims, and their communities to foster mutual support and collective strength.
- Solidarité (Solidarity): Standing together against neglect, indifference, and injustice in support of all affected by war.
- Mémoire (Memory): Preserving and promoting historical awareness to honor sacrifices and learn from the past.
- Antifascisme (Antifascism): Opposing the ideologies and practices of fascism that threaten democracy, human rights, and peace.
- Paix (Peace): Advocating for peaceful resolution of conflicts and a world free from the horrors of war.
Our Mission and Core Objectives
The core mission of A.R.A.C is to affirm and defend the rights of veterans, military and civilian victims of war, and their beneficiaries. This includes ensuring access to social, medical, and legal benefits, advocating for recognition and reparations, and providing moral support to those who have suffered.
We also dedicate ourselves to:
- Preserving historical memory: We organize and participate in commemorative events, publish educational materials, and work with schools and cultural institutions to ensure that history is remembered accurately and respectfully.
- Promoting social solidarity: Through our network, we create spaces where members can share experiences, access resources, and build lasting bonds.
- Opposing fascism and extremism: We actively combat any resurgence of hateful ideologies, drawing lessons from history to protect democratic values.
- Supporting peace initiatives: We believe that honoring victims includes working towards a world where war is not repeated and conflicts are resolved through dialogue and justice.
Our Activities and Impact
A.R.A.C carries out a broad range of activities, all rooted in our commitment to veterans and victims:
- Advocacy: We engage with government institutions, international organizations, and civil society to promote policies that protect the rights and dignity of those affected by war.
- Commemoration: We organize ceremonies, memorials, and cultural events to honor the sacrifices of past generations and ensure their stories remain part of public consciousness.
- Education: We conduct workshops, lectures, and collaborations with schools and universities to educate younger generations about the history of conflicts, the consequences of war, and the importance of peace.
- Support services: We offer guidance and assistance to members navigating complex administrative processes related to veterans’ benefits and recognition.
- Community building: Through meetings, publications, and projects, we foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose among our members and supporters.
Our work often extends beyond national borders as we recognize the universal nature of the values we defend. We collaborate with international organizations and participate in networks devoted to peace and human rights.
Why Our Work Matters Today
Although many years have passed since the wars that shaped much of the twentieth century, the issues we address remain urgent and relevant. Veterans and victims continue to face challenges in obtaining fair treatment and recognition. The wounds of conflict, both physical and psychological, affect families and communities across generations.
Moreover, the rise of extremist movements and the persistence of armed conflicts around the world remind us daily that peace must be actively defended. Memory and education are essential tools in this struggle, helping societies understand the dangers of hatred, authoritarianism, and violence.
By standing firm in our principles and supporting those who have endured war’s consequences, A.R.A.C contributes to a society that values justice, remembrance, and peace.
Our Values
The foundation of our association lies in a set of values that guide everything we do:
- Respect for human dignity: We honor every individual’s rights and recognize the suffering endured by many.
- Commitment to democracy: We uphold the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
- Solidarity: We believe in the power of collective support and social justice.
- Truth and memory: We pursue historical accuracy and oppose any denial or distortion of facts.
- Peace: We advocate for non-violence and the resolution of conflicts through dialogue.
These values shape our actions, our partnerships, and our vision for a better future.
How to Get Involved
A.R.A.C welcomes the participation of all who share our goals and values. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, a historian, a student, or simply a concerned citizen, your involvement strengthens our mission.
You can join us by becoming a member, attending our events, volunteering in our activities, or supporting our advocacy efforts. Together, we build a community committed to friendship, solidarity, memory, antifascism, and peace.
Contact and Visit Us
Our headquarters are located at:
18 Avenue Chanzy, 94400 Vitry-sur-Seine, France
We invite you to reach out to us via email at contact@asacp.sbs for information, assistance, or to learn how you can participate.
The Association Républicaine des Combattants pour l’Amitié, la Solidarité, la Mémoire, l’Antifascisme et la Paix is proud of its history and its ongoing commitment to those who have sacrificed for peace and freedom. We continue to work with determination, rooted in our past and focused on building a future where the values we cherish can flourish for generations to come.