Bećirović in Višegrad at the commemoration of the 33rd anniversary of the "Living Pyre" crime – Bikavac in Višegrad

(Patria) - Member of the BiH Presidency Denis Bećirović attended the commemoration of the 33rd anniversary of the crime known as the "Living Pyre" in the settlement of Bikavac in Višegrad, where tribute was paid to the innocent victims of one of the most horrific war crimes during the aggression against the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina.



In this war crime, committed against Bosniak civilians, more than 70 civilians were burned alive, and only one person survived.

Remembering the innocent victims is a key part of the process of confronting the past, building justice, and strengthening mutual trust among the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We must not forget the suffering that occurred. We must respect the pain and suffering of the victims' families and persevere on the path of truth, justice, and reconciliation, said Bećirović.

The commemoration, organized by the association "Women Victims of War," gathered family members of the victims, representatives of non-governmental organizations, and citizens, who laid wreaths as a sign of lasting remembrance of this war crime.

Bećirović also visited the settlements of Međeđa and Ustiprača in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He spoke with the locals about their existential problems.

During the conversation, the locals recalled the suffering of Bosniaks in this area, and the importance of preserving the culture of remembrance and truth was emphasized. They thanked Bećirović for his visit and highlighted the importance of support from the highest state officials in implementing concrete measures to improve the quality of life for returnees in this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bećirović said that peace, justice, and equality are particularly important for the future and progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that returnee communities deserve stronger support from all levels of government. He emphasized that it is very important for state officials to spend more time among returnees and, through their presence, offer support to those who, despite numerous challenges, remain in their homes and build lives in the areas from which they were expelled.

"Returnees are an important part of the foundation of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a multi-ethnic and democratic state. Their struggle for life in peace, dignity, and security deserves not only institutional but also human support," Bećirović stated.

According to the local residents present, this is the first time a member of the BiH Presidency has visited Međeđa and Ustiprača and spoken with the locals.