Lessons from Srebrenica are important for the world today

(Patria) - The first Srebrenica Media Meetings was held today in Srebrenica, with the support of the UK Government.

The event brought together leading journalists, editors, lecturers, and media professionals from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region at the Srebrenica Memorial Center.

The goal of the two-day program is to initiate discussions on the contemporary challenges of reporting on the Srebrenica genocide and to develop strategies for responsible journalism.

Panelists and discussants included Damir Šagolj, Adem Mehmedović, Irena Antić, Semir Mujkić, Benjamin Butković, Miran Mahmutović, Rialda Oćuz, Semir Hambo, Dejan Jazvić, Avdo Avdić, Kenan Kešmer, Nedim Jahić, Saša Kulukčija, Kasim Softić, Adisa Imamović, Omer Hasanović, Harun Karčić, Adnan Rondić, Nikola Vučić, Arijana Saračević, Jovana Sladoje, and Selma Učanbarlić.

Adisa Imamović (N1) emphasized the importance of continuous reporting.

- Most media outlets focus on stories around July 11, but the daily challenges faced by Srebrenica residents continue after that date. This gathering is a step towards preserving memory and generating new ideas for the local community - said Imamović.

Benjamin Butković (BHRT) stated that any gathering of media workers in a country where everything is divided should be welcomed.

- Let this be just the beginning of broader cooperation - added Butković.

Arijana Saračević (FTV) highlighted the personal dimension - giving lectures and workshops in Srebrenica is a lesson in ethics, empathy, and courage, and in a time of increasingly loud falsehoods, "truthful reporting is our strongest obligation".

Dejan Jazvić (FENA) warned that Srebrenica should be discussed with arguments and responsibility so that its tragic past is not a victim of manipulation.

- There are three publics in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The interests of these three publics rarely overlap to have a real public interest. In this light, unfortunately, the public interest in the topic of the Srebrenica genocide is also viewed - noted Avdo Avdić (Istraga).

Semir Hambo (Klix) emphasized that the culture of remembrance will become increasingly important, adding that this gathering deepens the story of the genocide through new perspectives and experiences.

Kenan Kešmer (Raport) states that in the era of 'alternative truths', it is strategically important to connect the Srebrenica Memorial Center and journalists who will expose lies and convey the established truth to the world.

- The media have followed Srebrenica most consistently, documenting the struggle of survivors and the trials of perpetrators - their contribution to spreading the truth is invaluable - believes Kasim Softić (BIR TV).

In one of the sessions, Adnan Rondić (AJB) reminded of the broader context.

- An event like this, especially in light of Gaza, can send a message of global journalistic solidarity. That message should also go out from Srebrenica today - said Rondić.

Representatives of all leading TV, radio, print, and online media in Bosnia and Herzegovina participated in today's gathering. Workshops for young journalists and journalism students are planned for tomorrow.

Srebrenica Media Meetings is recognized as an important platform for exchanging experiences, strengthening professional standards, and preserving the culture of remembrance, with a common message that the truth about the genocide must be preserved and passed on to new generations.

- We were and will remain open to all questions, to all information, and to all cooperation. Only in this way will we fulfill the mandate and goal entrusted to us - stated the Director of the Srebrenica Memorial Center, Emir Suljagić.