EU officials condemn genocide denial on 31st anniversary Of Srebrenica massacre

In their joint address, Kallas and Kos stated that Europe pays tribute to the memory of over 8,300 Bosniak men and boys who were systematically killed in the Srebrenica genocide 31 years ago. They expressed that their thoughts remain with the families of the victims, sharing the grief of those still enduring the anguish of uncertainty regarding missing loved ones, while pledging continued support for the survivors whose lives were upended in July 1995.

Characterizing the Srebrenica genocide as one of the darkest episodes in European history, the EU officials emphasized that the anniversary serves as a stark reminder of the collective obligation to build peaceful societies, protect human lives and dignity, and defend the core values underpinning the European Union. They noted that honoring the victims requires upholding historical truths and preserving memories so subsequent generations can learn from the tragedy. This, they recalled, was the primary intention of the United Nations General Assembly when it declared July 11 as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica two years ago.

The statement explicitly made it clear that there is absolutely no place in Europe for genocide denial, revisionism, or the glorification of convicted war criminals. Kallas and Kos called directly upon political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the wider region to choose responsibility over division, and dialogue over confrontation. Furthermore, they urged regional authorities to fully support ongoing processes aimed at locating and identifying the remaining victims of the massacres.

Concluding their message, the EU representatives stressed that healing the deep wounds of the past requires political courage, sincere engagement, and a genuine commitment to regional reconciliation. They reaffirmed that the European Union remains firmly committed to the European future of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign, united, multiethnic, and democratic country.