While some may think the Bosnian war was something of the past, we are currently observing a recurring pattern in Bosnia, worryingly reminiscent of the events preceding the Bosnian war of 1992. Here’s why we should be concerned…
When the Bosnian war ended in 1995, Serb perpetrators were allowed to create their own entity within the ethnically cleansed northern regions of Bosnia. It is now known as the Republika Srbska. Serb nationalism is as prevalent now as it has ever been. Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, elected recently, is embarking on a campaign to mobilize public opposition against Bosnia and advocate for secession.
His controversial statements include denying the genocide against Muslims during the 1990s, insulting the victims with phrases such as "F*ck your Genocide." Dodik has also rallied his supporters, proclaiming that "it is impossible to co-exist in Bosnia" and urging Serbs to "honour its heroes...who are now in prison." He emphasizes the need to "combat the invasion of terrorism" and asserts his readiness to “sacrifice and go to the end because I have no choice".
Mass celebrations are held on the anniversary of Srebrenica, Visegrad and other massacres. The very place where Muslims were ceremonially killed today has become a place of mockery for the dead. The world dares to reject the holocaust, yet here we see it not only embraced, but openly glorified.
Dodik along with the Republika Srbska, a devoted ally of Putin, have become one of the very few European nations to openly support Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. There are fresh concerns that Russia may use Serbia’s tensions with Bosnia as a “Trojan Horse attack” as a way of Inexcusably igniting another Bosnian war to distract NATO’s efforts in Ukraine. As the days pass, this reality intensifies, especially considering Russia's failures in Ukraine.
As my Bosnian friend worryingly put it: “The whole Balkan region can enter a new 1990s within the matter of a few days”. The foundations are all set, all it takes now is one event to kindle the flames of war. Instead of merely observing remembrance days with virtuous intent, it is so imperative, now more than ever, to actively educate ourselves about what is continuing to happen right now.
Dok u Allaha vjerujemo
Biće Bosne, biće muslimana
As long as we believe in Allah,
There will be Bosnia, There will be Muslims
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