Remembering the Srebrenica Genocide: A Warning Against Hatred and Intolerance

Strategic Insights -

As we mark the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the European Union External Action Service reminds us that the grief of families and survivors remains deep and profound. Despite three decades passing, the determination to remember and honor those who lost their lives persists. The genocide serves as a painful but necessary reminder of the consequences of unopposed hatred and intolerance. It is our collective responsibility to honor the memory of the victims, provide support to survivors, and fight against denial, revisionism, and hatred.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Srebrenica genocide, which occurred in 1995, resulted in the deaths of over 8,000 mostly men and boys, making it the biggest atrocity in Europe since WWII.
  • The European Union will be represented at the official commemoration in Srebrenica by two of its highest-ranking officials - Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement.
  • Many EU member states will also send high-level representatives to the commemoration, demonstrating the EU's commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina's journey toward reconciliation and EU membership.
  • The EU will continue to provide support for remembrance and peacebuilding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing its dedication to a Europe built on peace, tolerance, and respect for diversity.
  • The Srebrenica genocide is a painful reminder of what can happen when hatred and intolerance are unopposed, and it serves as a warning against division, rising tensions, and violence against civilians.
  • The EU's commitment to remembering the genocide is rooted in its fundamental values of peace, justice, and respect for human rights.

Statistics:

  • Over 8,000 mostly men and boys were killed in and around Srebrenica in 1995.
  • The Srebrenica genocide is the biggest atrocity in Europe since WWII.
  • Seven more victims of the genocide will be laid to rest in the cemetery at Potocari on Friday.
  • The EU will continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in its journey toward reconciliation and EU membership.

Sources:

  • European Union External Action Service news release, date not specified.