On Saturday, thousands of people participated in a solemn peace march through the forests of eastern Bosnia to commemorate the 1995 Srebrenica massacre, which is recognized as Europe’s only genocide since World War II. The annual march, spanning 100 kilometers (62 miles), follows the path taken by numerous Bosniak men and boys, predominantly Muslims, who were brutally killed while attempting to escape Srebrenica after it fell to Bosnian Serb forces during the 1992-1995 war.

According to the organizers, nearly 4,000 people participated in the march this year. It is taking place at a time when there are still a lot of ethnic tensions in Bosnia, and some Bosnian Serbs openly want to split up, reports Al Jazeera. Resid Dervisevic, who himself navigated this course in 1995, communicated his strong feeling, saying, “I come here to respect the memory of my siblings, companions, and individual conflict friends who lost their lives here. Preserving and safeguarding these memories is our collective responsibility and duty.”

Another survivor of the Srebrenica massacre, Osman Salkic, stated, “Coming back to this place evokes a whirlwind of emotions” regarding his mixed feelings regarding returning to the location. “I recollect how the dormant bodies lay here in 1995, and accommodating that with the ongoing situation is troublesome,” reports Military.

The participation of thousands of individuals in the march highlights the significance of acknowledging historical events and paying tribute to the victims. It signifies a desire to confront the past, seek justice, and work towards building a more inclusive and peaceful future.

While ethnic tensions and calls for separation persist in Bosnia, it is important to recognize that addressing deep-rooted divisions requires comprehensive and sustainable approaches. True peace and reconciliation necessitate efforts that go beyond simplistic and superficial strategies. Long-lasting peace processes should involve dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to justice, fostering an environment where all communities can coexist harmoniously.

The annual peace march in Bosnia, which commemorates the victims of the Srebrenica genocide, represents a commendable effort to remember and honor the lives lost. It serves as a platform for individuals to come together and reflect on the devastating consequences of violence and ethnic tensions. Such acts of remembrance play a crucial role in fostering empathy, understanding, and a collective commitment to peace.

However, it is important to acknowledge that addressing conflicts and promoting peace requires a comprehensive approach. The events in Bosnia, alongside the ongoing Ukraine war in Europe, serve as a reminder of the complex challenges surrounding peace and security. Superficial and simplistic strategies aimed at conflict resolution are unlikely to yield sustainable results or address the underlying causes of these conflicts.

Europe at this moment, more than ever, has to continuously advocate for dialogue, diplomacy, and non-violent means of conflict resolution. By promoting understanding, empathy, and inclusive approaches, we can contribute to a future where conflicts are prevented, peace is sustained, and the rights of all individuals are protected.