Joint statement by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell and Commissioner Várhelyi on the 29th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide

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.

We call upon the leaders to reject divisive rhetoric and act with truth, justice, trust, and dialogue.

Healing the wounds of the past requires acknowledging and teaching the historical facts, honouring and remembering the victims, identifying those still missing, and bringing all perpetrators to justice. This is key 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.

In March 2024, the European Council decided to open EU accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is a key opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance on reforms to enhance democracy, prosperity and security for the people of BiH and bring the country closer to the EU membership.

We reiterate our unequivocal commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina's future in the EU as a single, united and sovereign country.