UN marks Srebrenica genocide anniversary with calls for justice and vigilance

Bosnia and Herzegovina has witnessed the lingering effects of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, where thousands of Bosniak men and boys were killed by the Bosnian Serb army. On July 11, 2025, the world will commemorate the 30th anniversary of this tragic event, recognized as the worst atrocity in Europe since World War II. The Srebrenica massacre resulted in the death of over 8,000 individuals, with the International Court of Justice acknowledging the systematic killings as genocide. In recent years, women who lost their loved ones during the massacre have found solace in reburying their remains, symbolizing their quest for closure. As efforts to commemorate the genocide intensify, serious concerns remain regarding rising nationalist rhetoric and political instability in the region. Survivors like Fadila Efendic, who lost her husband and son, continue to pursue justice while grappling with trauma. The U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the need for international vigilance against hate and the importance of remembering those lost. The current climate in Bosnia and Herzegovina shows signs that could lead to future atrocities, as the Republika Srpska entity has been undermining the authority of state institutions and normalization of genocide denial emerges. Hate crimes against Bosniak returnees are on the rise, raising alarms concerning potential violence and unrest. Three decades post-genocide, many families still strive for justice, having testified against wartime officials and seeking to secure truth in the historical narrative. Women of Srebrenica have been at the forefront of this narrative, ensuring that their sacrifices do not go unremembered. The ongoing struggle emphasizes the relevance of educational programs to absorb historical facts and counteract denial movements. Survivors emphasize the importance of sharing their experiences and the memories of those lost, as commemorative efforts continue to shape collective memories while calling for acknowledgment and action to prevent further atrocities. The upcoming anniversary serves as a moment not only for reflection but a reminder of the need for prevention of hate and division while promoting reconciliation in the region. The echoes of the massacre still haunt many, urging renewed dedication to ensure that history is preserved not just for remembrance but as a lesson against the tide of repeating such horrors.