Some events in history cast a long shadow over generations. The genocide in Srebrenica is one such event, representing one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s history.

Thirty years have passed since these atrocities. Today, I pay tribute to the more than 8,300 Bosniak boys and men who lost their lives, along with those who remain missing. As some of the last victims of Srebrenica are buried with dignity, I honour the mothers, wives, and daughters who still grieve, bearing the burden of loss for three decades.

We have a duty to remember and preserve the truth, ensuring future generations understand what transpired.

They must know that during the summer of 1995, victims were systematically executed and buried in mass graves within the UN-designated safe area of Srebrenica, a town they believed would offer protection in the brutal war ravaging Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The European Union will never forget what occurred in this town.

We acknowledge our past and accept our responsibility for failing to prevent and stop the genocide.

We will never allow history to be rewritten.

We firmly reject and condemn any denial, distortion, or minimisation of the Srebrenica genocide, as well as the glorification of war criminals.

Political leaders have a significant responsibility in this matter, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina and throughout the Western Balkans.

They must lead by example in acknowledging the established facts and genuinely honouring the victims.

They must also actively pursue reconciliation by addressing the roots of hatred that led to these atrocities. This is the only way to a brighter and prosperous future for the next generation.

Finally, I want to convey a message to the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina: the European Union stands with you. We remain fully committed to supporting your country on its path to EU membership. Your political leaders must do their part so that your country can find its rightful place at the heart of our Union.