New political tensions have emerged over Srebrenica, with recent announcements from the Republic of Srpska suggesting a possible name change for the town. This proposal follows the adoption of the Resolution on the Genocide in Srebrenica.

Mladen Grujicic, the Mayor of Srebrenica, described the adoption of the resolution as a “black mark” rather than a step toward coexistence and reconciliation in the region. According to BHRT, Grujicic stated that discussions with both Serbian and Bosniak representatives about renaming Srebrenica will take place in the coming period.

“In my opinion, this is a good idea to erase that name, because global manipulators have misused it. They contributed to the war here, hoping for a genocide to occur in their projection, to condemn one people. And when that failed, they are now trying in this way,” Grujicic said.

The SDS party has indicated it will support the initiative if the rationale for changing the name is the adoption of the Resolution. Currently, no specific new name has been proposed, and the ancient names of the area, Domavia and Gentarija, are considered unnatural.

“The name Srebrenica is understood by people. We would have to look up Domavia in a foreign word dictionary, and we wouldn’t get a clear answer. Even intelligent minds would struggle to explain it. And Gentarija isn’t suitable for our language either,” said Momcilo Cvijetinovic, a councilor in the Srebrenica Municipal Assembly.

Although there is no concrete initiative to change Srebrenica’s name, Mayor Grujicic believes it could still gain traction. Locals view the proposal as political and populist, doubting its feasibility.

“We will do everything within our power. There is no official initiative yet, but if it arises, I call on the international community and the High Representative to take action because this situation is becoming uncontrollable,” stated Amir Dudic.

Many young people in Srebrenica aim to build a secure and promising future for themselves and future generations. They are weary of constant politicking and unrealistic ideas used to demonstrate political power without sincere intentions.

“This is not an initiative of the citizens but of certain political circles, and I believe it lacks the support of the residents. It should be rejected,” said Srebrenica activist Ahmo Mehmedovic.

“For Srebrenica to move forward, a more serious and long-term approach is needed, not just from local authorities but also from the international community. The international community has an obligation towards Srebrenica as it declared it a protected zone,” said Muhamed Avdic, a genocide survivor who lost his father.

As has become customary, every time local or general elections approach, a new topic is raised in this municipality that pours salt on old wounds. Alternatively, this narrative might be used to obscure the financial crisis currently affecting Srebrenica.