International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica
July 11, Friday
Why July 11?
On this day in 1995, Bosnian Serbs seized Srebrenica despite its status as a “safe area” under a UN Security Council resolution, and killed more than 8 372 Muslim men and boys. It is the largest act of genocide in Europe since the Holocaust.
Purpose and content of the resolution
The main objectives of the day are:
* to honour the memory of the victims and express solidarity with survivors; the first observance took place on 11 July 2024 in New York
* to condemn denial of the genocide and glorification of perpetrators
* to call on all states to integrate the facts of the genocide into their education systems to prevent distortion and forgetting
* to establish the UNITE programme ahead of the 30th anniversary of the genocide in 2025
Why it matters
The genocide in Srebrenica is not only a horrific crime but also a symbol of peace failure. Establishing this day allows us to:
* counter genocide denial and historical revisionism, especially in the Balkans
* promote education and remembrance as tools to prevent future genocides
* strengthen international accountability by emphasizing the role of courts and international law
How is the day observed?
1. Official UN events and commemorations at special missions
2. Memorial ceremonies and reading of the victims’ names, especially in Potocari
3. Conferences, exhibitions, lectures, and roundtable discussions on the origins and aftermath of the genocide
4. The “March of Peace” (Marš mira) – an annual walk to the memorial in memory of victims and survivors
Current significance
* In July 2024, the remains of 14 newly identified victims were reburied, with surviving relatives’ children attending the graves
* The EU expressed support for the day and urged regional politicians to oppose genocide denial
Conclusion
The international day of reflection and commemoration of the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica serves as a powerful form of collective memory and warning. It encourages public acknowledgment of the tragedy, education, and international solidarity, helping to prevent the recurrence of such atrocities in the future.