31st Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide Commemorated with Conscience in Bornova

The genocide that took place in 1995 in the Srebrenica city of Bosna Hersek and is considered one of the darkest pages in history was commemorated with an emotional ceremony held in the Bornova district of İzmir. Hundreds of citizens who gathered in front of the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial located in Çamdibi Atatürk Parkı observed a moment of silence for the 8 bin 372 Bosniaks who lost their lives. The program continued with a moment of silence and the singing of the İstiklal Marşı as well as the Bosna Hersek National Anthem, symbolizing the friendship and solidarity between the peoples of the two countries. Among the participants were Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki, representatives of various non-governmental organizations, headmen, and many conscientious citizens. Such commemorative events are of great importance in ensuring that the human tragedy experienced in the past is not forgotten and is passed on to future generations.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that the Srebrenica genocide is a common wound of conscience for all humanity, not just for Bosna Hersek. Stating that they have undertaken a historical responsibility, Eşki expressed that the planned final form of the monument in Çamdibi has not yet been completed, but they aim to hold a much more comprehensive event next year. Noting that they will organize a torchlight silent walk in the future to remember those killed in the massacre, the Mayor stated that this monument will be a symbol that keeps not only the past but also the common memory of humanity alive. Also touching upon the necessity of not forgetting the pains experienced in the Balkans in his speech, Eşki drew attention to the fellow citizens who migrated from this geography and settled in Bornova and personally experienced these pains. Stating that his goal is to provide children with a solid historical consciousness rather than hatred, Eşki reminded that the victims whose identities have been newly identified are still being laid to rest.

Barbaros Taşer, the President of the Türkiye Bosna Hersek Culture Associations Federation and at the same time the Deputy Mayor of Bornova, stated in his speech that what happened in Srebrenica was a massive crime against humanity committed before the eyes of the whole world. Stating that they are making an effort to create a common conscience instead of fueling hostility, Taşer argued that future generations must be aware of the tragedies experienced. He emphasized the necessity of exhibiting an uncompromising stance not only against the crimes against humanity in Bosna but also those occurring all around the world. Stating that commemorative events play a vital role in preventing similar pains from being experienced again, Taşer said that they will continue to keep the memory alive on every platform. In this context, he warned all humanity against the danger that every forgotten or ignored genocide can recur.

İzmir Bosna Sancak Culture and Solidarity Association President Mehmet Fatih Demir, in his speech, reminded that the Srebrenica event was one of the greatest brutalities committed in the heart of the European continent. Stating that more than eight thousand innocent people were destroyed solely because of their ethnic identity and religious belief, Demir expressed that mass graves are still being found in the region and this situation keeps the pain fresh. He emphasized that not forgetting Srebrenica is not only a duty of respect towards the dead but also a massive responsibility towards the future of humanity. Demir stated that by accurately explaining this painful heritage, they will strive to leave a world where future generations can live in tolerance and peace. Demir, who expressed his gratitude for the strong support given by the Bornova Municipality and Mayor Ömer Eşki to the commemoration program, added that cultural ties will grow stronger with each passing day.

Following the completion of the official speeches, protocol members and citizens attending the ceremony paid their respects to the memory of the deceased by laying red carnations in front of the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial. The red carnations fell from the hands of the participants to the ground as a symbol of hope, solidarity, and peace despite the great tragedy experienced. As part of the ceremony, a striking photography exhibition revealing the human tragedy experienced in Srebrenica and named 'Those Who Walked for Peace on the Path of Death' was also opened to visitors. This exhibition captured the dimensions of the massacre in a documentary style, causing the viewers to undergo a deep emotional ordeal. At the end of the event, the program ended by reminding once again how essential it is to protect peace, universal justice, and common human memory.