Vučić Warns Srebrenica Resolution Adoption Would Destabilize Region

During his visit to New York in 2024, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić warned that adopting the Srebrenica Resolution at the UN General Assembly would destabilize the region and create a divide and mistrust. Vučić met with the Chairman of the 78th General Assembly, Dennis Francis, who informed him that Germany is the most committed to the adoption of the resolution and that the sponsoring countries do not want any postponement of the vote.

Vučić stated that the proponents of the resolution do not care about the Dayton Agreement or stability in the region, and that their only goal is a "collective punishment for the Serbian people." He vowed to fight to the end to defend the honor and image of Serbia. Vučić said Serbia's position ahead of the vote was extremely difficult, and they were trying to get more countries to abstain or vote against the resolution than those who would vote in favor, which he called a "heroic political success" even if they formally lose.

The Serbian President noted that many countries understood Serbia's reasons for opposing the draft resolution and said positions on the matter should be harmonized. He expressed that he was not optimistic about preventing the adoption of the Srebrenica resolution but said he would keep fighting. Vučić mentioned that there were huge reservations about the procedure among all groups, and even some of Serbia's friends from Islamic countries were not happy about the resolution, as they felt it would hurt a friend.

Vučić acknowledged the pressure on small countries like Serbia but said they would continue to work in the UN, meeting with the UN Secretary-General, the UN special adviser on genocide, and several European countries to try to prevent being opposed. He argued that the resolution was an attempt by Western powers to impose collective guilt, cover up issues related to Gaza, and show they are not anti-Muslim. Vučić said the main sponsors of the resolution were the US, Germany, the UK, and France.

Why this matters: The potential adoption of the Srebrenica Resolution at the UN General Assembly has significant implications for regional stability and international relations. The outcome of the vote could impact the delicate balance in the Western Balkans and strain diplomatic ties between Serbia and the resolution's proponents.

Vučić warned of the consequences and the irreparable damage that the adoption of the resolution on Srebrenica can have on the stability and future of the Western Balkans, respect for international public law, and the credibility of the UN itself as a guarantor of peace and legal order in the world. He stated that Serbia, as a small country, is finding it difficult to stand up to the increasing pressure to vote for the resolution, but they have done a great job in fighting for their people at the UN. Vučić emphasized that "the truth cannot always be won by force, but it still means something to them."

Key Takeaways

• Serbian Pres. Vučić warns Srebrenica resolution will destabilize region
• Germany leads push for resolution, Serbia fights to prevent adoption
• Vučić says resolution aims to "collectively punish" Serbs, vows to resist
• Serbia tries to get countries to abstain or vote against resolution
• Outcome could impact Balkans stability, Serbia-West relations