In a heartfelt tribute to the memory of the victims of the Srebrenica genocide, Yunus Emre Institute London and the Muslim Leadership Foundation UK held a reflective event, “Srebrenica Remembered: Lessons for Justice and Peace.” On this International Day of Remembrance, the event served as a beacon of hope and a call to action, uniting a diverse group of individuals in their commitment to justice and the pursuit of enduring peace. The gathering was a testament to the power of collective memory and the unyielding spirit of those who seek to ensure that such tragedies are never forgotten nor repeated. The evening’s proceedings began with a moment of silence, honouring the lives lost and the profound sorrow that still echoes through the hearts of many. This somber reflection set the tone for an evening dedicated to understanding and learning from one of history’s darkest moments.
Dr Mehmet Karakuş, Director of Yunus Emre Institute London, then took the stage to emphasize the critical role of historical consciousness in the prevention of future atrocities. He spoke of the institute’s dedication to nurturing dialogue and understanding across cultural divides through a variety of cultural and educational initiatives.
Samra Koricic Mujkic, representing the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in London, provided a poignant narrative of the genocide’s enduring impact on the Bosniak community. Her words underscored the importance of international solidarity and collective efforts in the ongoing pursuit of justice.
The panel, moderated by Meryem Nur Kucuk, Researcher and Director of the Muslim Leadership Foundation UK, featured a dynamic discussion that delved deep into the geopolitical aftermath of the genocide and its far-reaching influence on international policies towards the Balkans. Sami Hamdi, Dr. Aidan Hehir, Dr. Sheila Osmanovic, Arnesa Buljusmic-Kustura, and Sara Hukić each brought unique perspectives, from geopolitical analysis to personal narratives of survival and resilience.
The panellists emphasized the crucial role of education in raising awareness about topics such as racism and Islamophobia and preventing genocide, highlighting the need for historical accuracy and the understanding of social dynamics to build a more just and inclusive society. They discussed the integration of the history of the Srebrenica genocide into educational curricula, ensuring that the lessons learned are passed down to future generations.
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to strategies aimed at preventing future genoc ides. The panellists advocated for increased advocacy at the international level, the promotion of human rights, and the fortification of legal frameworks to hold perpetrators accountable.
The event closed with a powerful call to action, as speakers encouraged attendees to become advocates for peace and to take concrete steps towards creating a world where the horrors of Srebrenica are never repeated.
For more information about upcoming events and initiatives, please visit yeelondon.org.uk.