In line with current security assessments and implemented protection measures, the Srebrenica-Potocari Memorial Center held a meeting yesterday with employees and associates to discuss the current situation and possibilities for ending the institution’s temporary closure. Based on the information received from institutions and the Office of the High Representative (OHR), a decision was made for employees to return to work.
“At the meeting, we jointly analyzed the current state and all relevant information, including the security guarantees received from competent institutions, the protection measures implemented by the Directorate for Coordination of Police Bodies of Bosnia and Herzegovina (DKPT BiH) and the EUFOR mission, as well as feedback from the employees and associates of the Memorial Center. I would like to thank the director of the DKPT, Chief General Police Inspector Enes Karic, for the measures taken. DKPT has been and remains crucial for the operation of the Memorial Center. We have also received guarantees from the High Representative that he is prepared to take all necessary measures to ensure the continuation of work,” stated the director of the Srebrenica Memorial Center, Emir Suljagic.
Additional security measures include an increased presence of DKPT BiH and enhanced surveillance within the Memorial Center, additional technical protection measures, and access control for all visitors and staff, as well as close cooperation with EUFOR, alongside a series of other security steps.
“My primary responsibility, both legal and moral, is toward the people who work at the Srebrenica Memorial Center and the community in which they live. Everyone must understand that we are returning to work under extraordinary legal conditions and a special security regime. State institutions in this part of the country operate in a state of complete legal uncertainty, which will continue to affect our work. For this reason, among others, the Center will still not be open for joint and collective visits,” said Suljagic.
The Srebrenica Memorial Center remains committed to its mission of preserving the truth and remembrance of the genocide victims while ensuring the highest protection standards for all who come to pay their respects. The public will be promptly informed about the outcome of the meeting and further steps.
“I take this opportunity to thank everyone who has shown solidarity with the Memorial Center. Our friends and allies continue to stand with us and closely monitor developments alongside us. As soon as we assess the situation this week, we will strive to ensure that the institution reopens for collective visits before the end of the month,” concluded Suljagic.
