A group of advocates has formally expressed concern over plans by Judson University to host Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik as a featured speaker at its upcoming World Leaders Forum, titled “Standing Up For Democracy,” scheduled for April 30, 2026.
In a letter addressed to university president Gene Crume, the Working Group for Bosnia and Herzegovina urged the institution to reconsider both the invitation and the decision to present Dodik with the inaugural “Leadership and Standing Up for Democracy Award.”
The group argued that Dodik’s political record runs counter to democratic principles, citing his repeated characterization of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a “failed state” and his longstanding threats of secession by Republika Srpska. They further accused him of undermining the country’s constitutional order by rejecting decisions of the Constitutional Court.
Particular emphasis was placed on Dodik’s denial of the Srebrenica genocide, which has been legally recognized as genocide by both the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and the International Court of Justice. The letter notes that his statements intensified even as the United Nations General Assembly designated July 11 as an international day of remembrance for the victims.
The signatories also highlighted Dodik’s opposition to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Euro-Atlantic integration, including its aspirations toward membership in the European Union and NATO. They pointed to his political alignment with Vladimir Putin as further cause for concern, arguing that such ties contribute to regional instability.
Additionally, the group referenced sanctions imposed on Dodik by the United States, as well as a court ruling in Bosnia and Herzegovina sentencing him to one year in prison and barring him from serving as president of Republika Srpska, linked to his defiance of the Office of the High Representative.
The letter also criticized what it described as a “culture of denial” in Republika Srpska, claiming it obstructs efforts by survivors to commemorate victims of wartime atrocities while allowing memorials that glorify convicted war criminals.
Concluding their appeal, the Working Group stated that honoring Dodik risks causing further distress to survivors and undermines the forum’s stated mission of promoting democratic values. They called on Judson University leadership to withdraw the invitation and reconsider the award.
