Serbian President Criticizes UN Srebrenica Genocide Resolution

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has strongly denounced the proposed UN resolution on the Srebrenica genocide, warning that it will deepen tensions in the Western Balkans rather than heal wounds. In a series of statements, Vučić argued that the resolution, if passed, will not lead to peace or reconciliation but instead widen the divide between nations and ignite new tensions in the already fragile region.

Vučić called on UN member states to oppose the resolution, asserting that the drafting process was conducted in secret without informing Serbia and that it disregards the institutions and laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He stated, "The resolution was a decision that deeply divided the ethnic minorities in the region, and was made regardless of the opposition of the Serbs and in complete disregard of the institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina."

The Serbian president pointed out that unlike the 2003 resolution on the Rwandan genocide, which was adopted after regional consultations, the Srebrenica resolution was pushed through without such dialogue. Vučić reiterated Serbia's consistent condemnation of the crimes committed in Srebrenica and its commitment to the principles of international law.

Why this matters: The proposed UN resolution on the Srebrenica genocide has the potential to inflame ethnic tensions and destabilize the delicate peace in the Western Balkans. As a key player in the region, Serbia's opposition to the resolution highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing the legacy of the Bosnian War and achieving lasting reconciliation.

Vučić announced that he will hold a series of consultations and meetings with representatives of UN member states to explain Serbia's position on the resolution. He requested that the resolution be withdrawn, and if not, he invited UN members to vote against it, emphasizing that it will not lead to peace and will only deepen the wounds of the past. Vučić also met with the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, in New York to address the challenges Serbia faces due to the imposition of the Srebrenica resolution on the UN General Assembly agenda.

Key Takeaways

• Serbian President Vučić strongly opposes UN resolution on Srebrenica genocide.
• Vučić argues resolution will deepen tensions, not promote reconciliation in Balkans.
• Vučić calls on UN members to oppose resolution, claims it disregards Bosnian institutions.
• Vučić requests resolution withdrawal, warns it will not lead to peace and stability.
• Vučić meets with Russian UN rep to address challenges posed by Srebrenica resolution.