Bosnia’s wound, the world’s shame: Srebrenica, 30 years on

As a child, I often heard stories of the strong bond between a mother and her child, between a father and his son or daughter. These stories painted a beautiful picture of a family’s love and support, making me believe that no matter what, our parents will always be there for us.

But for the children of Srebrenica, this beautiful picture was shattered on July 11, 1995. It was on this day that the Bosnian Serb army attacked the town of Srebrenica, a designated UN Safe Area, and committed the worst genocide in Europe since World War II. In just a matter of days, over 8,000 Bosniak Muslim men and boys were brutally killed, leaving behind thousands of children without their parents.

Today, twenty-six years later, these children have grown up, but the pain of losing their parents still lingers. They are still searching for their mothers and fathers, asking the question, “Why aren’t you here?”

In the streets of Srebrenica, the echoes of these children’s cries can still be heard. They wander through the ruins of their once peaceful town, hoping to find any traces of their parents. Some have photographs that they hold onto tightly, while others have only their memories to hold onto. But one thing is for sure; their longing for their parents never fades away.

Their journey is not just about finding their parents’ remains or their graves; it is about finding closure and healing. It is about honoring the memory of their loved ones and keeping their legacy alive. But most importantly, it is about finding a sense of identity and belonging.

Growing up without parents is an unimaginable pain that no child should have to endure. These children were forced to grow up too soon, to take on the responsibilities and burdens of adults. They were robbed of the care, love, and guidance that only a parent can provide. But despite all the hardships, they have shown incredible resilience, determination, and strength.

In the midst of all the chaos, these children found hope and solace in each other. They formed a bond that goes beyond blood; they became a family. They found support and understanding in each other, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. Together, they are determined to break the cycle of hatred and violence and to build a peaceful future for themselves and their children.

Their journey of searching for their parents is also a journey of searching for justice. For decades, these children and their families have been fighting for justice, demanding that those responsible for the genocide in Srebrenica are held accountable for their crimes. And while justice has been slow and far from perfect, these children have never given up hope. They continue to fight tirelessly for the truth to be revealed and for their parents to be remembered as victims, not just a number in a death toll.

But even in the midst of tragedy and pain, these children have found the strength to forgive. They understand that forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing the horrific acts of violence that were committed against their loved ones. It means freeing themselves from the burden of hatred and anger, and choosing to move forward with love and compassion in their hearts.

So, to all the children of Srebrenica who are still searching for their parents, know that you are not alone. Your parents may not physically be with you, but their spirits, love, and memories will always be a part of you. Your courage, resilience, and determination inspire us all and give us hope for a better future.

And to the mothers and fathers of Srebrenica, we may never fully understand the pain and suffering that you and your children have endured, but we will always stand by you, support you, and honor the memory of your loved ones.

We may not be able to bring back the parents that were taken away, but we can ensure that their legacy lives on forever.

So, my dear brothers and sisters, keep searching, keep hoping, and keep fighting for justice and peace. Your parents’ love and sacrifice will forever be a guiding light in your journey, and their memory will never be forgotten.

Mother, father, wherever you are, we hear your children’s cries, and we will continue to search for you with them. We will never give up until we find you and bring you home.

Because even though you may not physically be here, in our hearts, you will always be with us.

Rest in