Bosnia and Herzegovina Independence Day marked at Sarajevo City Hall

Sarajevo Mayor Samir Avdic recalled the historic significance of the 1992 referendum, when citizens chose the path of independence and sovereignty. He said the decision represented a logical, patriotic and necessary step, and remains the foundation upon which a free Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to be built.

“Unfortunately, this year we mark March 1 under extremely difficult circumstances, following the tragic loss of a young life and injuries to several of our fellow citizens, especially Ella Jovanovic, whom we wish a full recovery,” Avdic said, calling on attendees to honour Erdoan Morankic and express solidarity with his family, friends and all who knew him.

He added that recent public gatherings in Sarajevo following the tragic incident reflect the deep concern of citizens, particularly young people, whose demands and expectations should not be seen as a threat, but rather as evidence of their commitment to a better Sarajevo and a better Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“It is the responsibility of all of us, at every level of government, to build dialogue and processes that will lead to sustainable solutions,” Avdic said.

Speaking about the significance of Independence Day, Avdic noted that Bosnia and Herzegovina has historically faced competing interests and attempts at division, yet has endured as a unified, multiethnic and open country.

“Our homeland belongs to all its citizens, and Sarajevo, as its capital, is an important regional centre of dialogue, diversity and coexistence,” he said.

Sarajevo Canton Prime Minister in resignation Nihad Uk said the independence referendum was the only rational and democratic response to the breakup of the former Yugoslavia.

“It was a decision based on the fundamental right of people to determine their own future,” Uk said, adding that citizens soon faced brutal aggression, but their will could not be suppressed through violence, destruction and suffering.

Reflecting on the defence of the country, Uk emphasised that soldiers, teachers, healthcare workers, firefighters, artists, mothers and journalists all played a crucial role during the most difficult period in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s history.

“Today, three decades after the aggression, we continue to face daily tests in defending our independence. Every decision, every action and every word contributes to building either a stronger or weaker state,” he said.

According to Uk, the defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s independence today takes place in classrooms, courtrooms, hospitals, universities, businesses and state institutions.

“A strong and sovereign Bosnia and Herzegovina is built not on grand words, but on the honest daily work of its citizens,” Uk said, congratulating all citizens on March 1, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Independence Day.