Srebrenica genocide memorial unveiled in Paris, honouring victims 30 years on

The memorial was erected following a decision by the Paris City Council, with strong support from Mayor Hidalgo. It now stands in the cemetery’s memorial alley, beside the monuments commemorating the victims of the 1994 Tutsi genocide in Rwanda and French soldiers who died in World War II.

The NGO Solidarity initiated the project with Bosnia and Herzegovina (SIBH-France), which brings together Bosnian associations and supporters of BiH in France. The sculpture is the work of Bosnian artist and sculptor Admir Halilovic.

In his speech, Becirovic expressed deep gratitude to the Republic of France for its key support in the adoption of the UN General Assembly Resolution on the International Day of Remembrance of the Genocide in Srebrenica, passed in May 2024. He emphasised that Bosnia and Herzegovina highly values France’s role as one of the co-sponsors of the resolution.

Speaking on the importance of the monument, Becirovic praised the efforts of Mayor Hidalgo and the Paris City Council in commemorating the victims and standing up for truth and justice.

"Today, we honour the victims of the only genocide committed on European soil since 1945. Here in the heart of Paris, at Père Lachaise Cemetery, we unveil a monument dedicated to the victims of the genocide against Bosniaks in the UN-declared Safe Zone of Srebrenica. This memorial will stand here permanently, as a symbol of remembrance and a commitment to truth. Remembering Srebrenica must serve as a foundation for building a better, safer, and more just future, because only through truth, respect for victims, and accountability can we ensure that genocide is never repeated”, Becirovic said.