Coventry is joining other cities around the world this week to mark the 25th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the biggest atrocity on European soil since World War II. 
More than 8,000 mostly Bosnian Muslims, men and boys, were killed, countless women were raped, and over 25,000 people were driven from the area, suffering terrible abuse.
Every year, events are held to ensure that the victims are never forgotten and to help achieve peace. Srebrenica Remembrance Week, this year runs from July 5th to 12th and has the theme “Every Action Matters”.
It is organized by Remembering Srebrenica, a British charity that works to combat discrimination and strengthen community relations.
The anniversary is always marked in Coventry as well, and this year Lord Mayor Cllr Ann Lucas joined thousands of people in lighting a candle to remember those who have suffered so much.
She said: “It is so important for us to remember the victims of the Srebrenica genocide, not only on this 25th anniversary, but always.
“It’s scary to think that our city’s work for peace began in World War II, and 50 years later, after everything humanity has seen, it was still possible for genocide to happen.
“The stories of the victims remind us that we must never stop the work of our city to create a more peaceful and understandable world.”
Councilor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader of the Council, added: “This year’s theme ‘Every Action Matters’ shows us that we all have a role to play and that our actions, no matter how small, can make a big difference.” It’s a theme that fits so well with our beliefs here in Coventry.
“As a City of Peace and Reconciliation and a City of Sanctuary, we work around the world and here at home to bring people together and learn from the past.
“Coventry is proud to stand with the people of Srebrenica to honor those we lost and we promise their story will never be forgotten.”
Coventry opened its doors to many who lost their homes in the conflict, including those who were held in concentration camps, and is now home to around 500 families from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the former Yugoslavia.
Remembering Srebrenica is a charitable organization that works year-round to combat extremism, hatred and discrimination and to build stronger communities.
Bosnia UK Network
