EU President von der Leyen: Srebrenica genocide casts a shadow across generations

“Some events in history cast a shadow that stretches across generations. The genocide in Srebrenica is one of them,” von der Leyen said.

She paid tribute to the more than 8,300 Bosniak men and boys who were killed in July 1995, as well as those who are still missing. As newly identified victims are buried with dignity in Potocari, she also honoured the enduring grief of mothers, wives, and daughters who have carried the burden of loss for three decades.

“It is our duty to remember and to preserve the truth, so that future generations know exactly what happened,” she emphasised. “They must know that in the summer of 1995, victims were systematically executed and buried in mass graves within the UN-designated 'safe area' of Srebrenica.”

Von der Leyen reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to remembrance and justice:

“The EU will never forget what happened. We acknowledge our past and recognise our responsibility for failing to prevent and stop the genocide.”

She firmly condemned all forms of genocide denial and historical revisionism:

“We will never allow history to be rewritten. We firmly reject and condemn any denial, distortion, or minimisation of the Srebrenica genocide, as well as the glorification of war criminals.”

Calling on political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the Western Balkans, she urged them to lead by example, by acknowledging established facts, honouring the victims, and working toward reconciliation.

“This is the only way towards a brighter and prosperous future for the next generation,” she said.

Von der Leyen concluded her message with a pledge of continued support:

“The European Union stands with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We remain fully committed to supporting your country on its path toward EU membership. Your political leaders must do their part so your country can find its place at the heart of our Union, where it belongs.”