The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie Rhys-Jones, read out a personal message from Britain’s King Charles today on the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, in which the British monarch reflected on the tragedy of July 1995 and the role of the international community.
“I am extremely sorry that I cannot be with you in person today to mark this sad anniversary. I am deeply honoured and grateful to be able to send this message. I have spoken before about the crimes committed in Srebrenica, crimes that have left an indelible mark on the conscience of the world,” said King Charles.
He added that it was “important to recognise that many individuals have rightly been brought to justice, but that this does not absolve the rest of the international community of responsibility for its failure to prevent the genocide”.
“There can be no shared future while the events of the past are denied. Only by working together can we uncover the truth about the missing and find justice for the victims. Thirty years on, it is even more important to remember those who suffered,” said the British king.
He particularly referred to the role and strength of surviving women.
“I humbly salute the Mothers of Srebrenica, who, despite the immense pain, preserved the memory of those killed. Their extraordinary courage is an inspiration to all of us. I hope we learn from their struggle, and from those who fearlessly advocate justice.”
King Charles concluded the message with words of hope: “Today, as we remember those who were tragically killed, we honor them by standing with those who stand for understanding, peace and a fairer future for all people, regardless of faith or background.”
