Day of remembrance for the victims of Srebrenica

Thirty years have passed since the murder of 8,372 Bosniaks—men and boys. International courts have classified this crime as genocide. July 11 is not merely a date that reminds us of our obligation not to forget as a society—it is also a test of our ability to face the facts without denial, relativization, or justification. Remembering Srebrenica is not a question of the past, but a question of our maturity, responsibility, and future. Only with an honest attitude toward what happened can we build a just society.

Many direct perpetrators of the genocide in Srebrenica, as well as organizers and those who gave the orders, have been convicted. However, intellectuals and public figures who spread the ideology of hatred and supported that policy have largely remained beyond the reach of justice. Many of them still enjoy a reputation and influence in society. This is an obstacle to a true reckoning with the past, which is not only a civilizational obligation but also a prerequisite for the future.

Today, attempts are being made to ascribe a crime that was inspired, organized, and committed by individuals—many of whom have been held accountable—to the entire Serbian people through the slogan “that Serbia is not a genocidal state,” a phrase no one except those promoting it ever used. Such rhetoric in the public sphere must be stopped.

The truth about Srebrenica must not be the subject of silence, relativization, or political manipulation. In order to move forward, we must have the courage to look back—to admit, to speak out, and to condemn. Without turning our heads away. Without silence. With no “buts.”

Today, on the thirtieth anniversary, we express our deepest respect for all the victims and our solidarity with their families. Truth and justice are not signs of weakness, but of the strength of conscience and a mark of genuine regret and repentance.

That is why we repeat: until all those responsible—not only those who carried weapons, but also the ideological creators of the crime—are named, exposed, and face the consequences of their words and actions, righteous people will not be able to breathe freely.

Only on the foundations of truth, justice, and respect for all victims can we build a society free of hatred, fear, and lies.