Association of Victims and Witnesses of Genocide: Monument to Pelemiš insults victims of the Srebrenica genocide!

(Patria) - The unveiling of a monument to Milorad Mišo Pelemiš in Šekovići (March 15, 2026) is another direct insult and humiliation to the victims of the Srebrenica genocide.

"Pelemiš was the commander of the 10th Diversant Detachment of the Army of Republika Srpska, a unit whose members directly participated in the mass executions of Bosniaks at locations such as Branjevo. The main reasons why this act deeply offends the victims are: - Glorification of those responsible for crimes: Erecting a monument to a person who commanded a unit responsible for the execution of thousands of people is perceived as glorification of war criminals.

- Denial of genocide through public space: Victims' associations believe that such monuments serve to cement a narrative that denies judicially established facts about the Srebrenica genocide.

- Traumatic impact on survivors: Public events in honor of commanders from that period, such as the one held on the 33rd anniversary of the formation of the Second Special Police Detachment, inflict additional pain on families who are still searching for the remains of their loved ones," stated the Association of Victims and Witnesses of Genocide.

They conclude: "Although Pelemiš did not live to see a final verdict (he passed away in 2021), his name is inextricably linked to the operations in Srebrenica, which is why this monument remains a symbol of deep divisions and the denial of remembrance of the victims."