IGK: We welcome the proposed new resolution on Srebrenica in the US

The Institute for Research of Genocide Canada (IGK) welcomes the proposed new resolution on the genocide in Srebrenica, proposed by US Congressman Christopher Smith from New Jersey, reports the BH News Agency Patria.

- It is very important that in the year marking the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, the US once again, through a new resolution, politically confirms that it considers the crimes committed by Bosnian Serb forces to be genocide. At the same time, the draft resolution condemns statements that deny this fact. It is also important that the resolution speaks of genocide not only in Srebrenica, but throughout the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina. IGK believes that the proposed new resolution is a big step towards the victory of truth about the aggression and genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina and justice for the victims of these crimes, which is the most important condition for a better future for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the region, Europe, and the world.

Punishment for criminals and justice for victims is a lasting task and obligation, so that genocide is never repeated anywhere. In the year marking the 20th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica, the greatest crime after the Holocaust in Europe, we point to the necessity of overcoming the culture of impunity, and the necessity of preventing the denial of the genocide in Srebrenica, which has been confirmed by relevant court decisions, as well as the realization that its recognition is the first step towards reconciliation. The culture of remembrance of the victims of genocide is of existential importance. The genocide in Srebrenica is not just a matter for Bosnia and Herzegovina, but for the entire world. It is important to point out the need for the memorialization of genocide and collective remembrance. Through the memorialization of genocide and collective remembrance, we work on historical memory, as an important factor in resisting fascism, destruction, and aggression. By preserving the memory of the genocide in Srebrenica and Bosnia and Herzegovina, we strongly affirm universal values today: the richness of diversity, anti-fascism, the sanctity of peace, and we develop activism and international opposition to injustices and all deviations of the time in which we live. By preserving the memory of the genocide in Srebrenica and Bosnia and Herzegovina, we prevent future genocides at a time when numerous crimes are occurring around the world - said Professor Emir Ramić, Director of IGK, on the occasion of the new resolution in the US Congress.

Calling on all American Bosniaks and all American friends of truth and justice to make maximum efforts in lobbying for the final adoption of the resolution, IGK thanks the Advisory Council for Bosnia and Herzegovina for the efforts it continuously makes to ensure that the voice of Bosnia and Herzegovina is heard in Washington.