Zurich Marks International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide
ZURICH, Switzerland — July 11, 2026 — The Swiss-based civic organization Glas za Bosnu (Voice for Bosnia) organized the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica on Saturday evening at Helvetiaplatz in Zurich, bringing together survivors of the genocide, diplomats, Swiss public officials, religious leaders, members of the Bosnian diaspora, and supporters in a powerful tribute to the victims and a renewed commitment to remembrance, justice, and peace.
Held on the 31st anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the public commemorative event honored the memory of more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys who were systematically murdered after the fall of the United Nations "safe area" of Srebrenica in July 1995—the worst mass atrocity committed on European soil since the Second World War.
A Gathering Dedicated to Memory and Peace
The evening's program featured speeches by distinguished guests representing the City of Zurich, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Islamic community.
Among the speakers were:
Balthasar Glättli, Member of the Zurich City Council;
Dženeta Halilović, diplomat at the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Bern;
Muhamed Jugo, Advisor for International Relations of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Riyasat);
Sadudin ef. Tutnjić, Chief Imam representing the Islamic Community of Bosniaks in Switzerland.
One of the most moving moments of the commemoration came from survivors of the Srebrenica genocide and former concentration camp detainees, who shared their personal testimonies. Their stories offered a deeply human perspective on the consequences of genocide and underscored the importance of preserving historical truth for future generations.
The event also featured a documentary exhibition, artistic performances, and a public conversation exploring the legacy of the genocide, the pursuit of justice, and the importance of education in preventing future atrocities.
Glas za Bosnu: A Decade of Civic Engagement
Since its establishment in Zurich in December 2015, Glas za Bosnu (Voice for Bosnia) has grown into one of the leading Bosnian civic organizations in Switzerland. Independent, non-partisan, and non-governmental, the organization works to strengthen the connection between the Bosnian diaspora and Bosnia and Herzegovina while promoting civic responsibility, education, cultural preservation, and international cooperation.
Its activities extend far beyond commemorative events. Over the years, Glas za Bosnu has organized numerous cultural, educational, and public forums throughout Switzerland and Europe, bringing together respected scholars, researchers, diplomats, politicians, and representatives of civil society.
The organization has hosted internationally recognized experts on genocide studies and transitional justice, including Prof. Dr. Smail Čekić, Ramiz Salkić, Mirad Tokača, and Dr. Emir Ramić, while also organizing events marking the Statehood Day of Bosnia and Herzegovina and promoting dialogue between Bosnian and Swiss institutions.
Through its long-term strategic framework known as "Plan 7," Glas za Bosnu seeks to strengthen cooperation among Bosnian organizations worldwide and encourage coordinated civic engagement in areas important to the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Preserving Memory, Defending Truth
This year's commemoration in Zurich was more than a remembrance ceremony. It served as a public affirmation that the memory of Srebrenica must be preserved through education, dialogue, and solidarity.
Speakers throughout the evening stressed the responsibility of democratic societies to confront genocide denial, support survivors, and safeguard historical truth. They emphasized that remembrance is not only an act of honoring the victims but also a commitment to protecting human dignity and preventing future atrocities.
As candles were lit and the names of the victims remembered, Helvetiaplatz became a place where history, memory, and hope converged.
Thirty-one years after the genocide, the message from Zurich was unmistakable: the victims of Srebrenica will not be forgotten, and their memory continues to inspire the universal pursuit of justice, peace, and human rights.
