High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell and Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi issued a joint statement on Wednesday commemorating the 29th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, calling it one of the darkest moments in modern European history.

“The genocide in Srebrenica, 29 years ago, is one of the darkest moments in modern European history. It is our duty to honour the memory of the over 8,300 boys and men who were systematically murdered in the hills around Srebrenica,” the statement read.

Borrell and Várhelyi urged leaders to reject divisive rhetoric and promote truth, justice, trust, and dialogue as essential steps toward healing the wounds of the past. They emphasized the importance of acknowledging historical facts, honoring victims, identifying the missing, and bringing perpetrators to justice to confront the roots of hatred that led to the genocide.

“We need to build together bridges to reconciliation. There is no place amongst us for those who deny genocide, attempt to rewrite history, and glorify war criminals,” they stated.

The leaders highlighted the European Council's decision in March 2024 to open EU accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina, describing it as a key opportunity for the country to advance reforms that enhance democracy, prosperity, and security.

“We reiterate our unequivocal commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's future in the EU as a single, united and sovereign country,” the statement concluded. (ILKHA)