This year marks the 28th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, in which over 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were murdered in the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War because of their identity.
The lessons from Srebrenica are that hatred and intolerance can flourish if left unchallenged which underlines the importance of why we must never forget about the tragic events that took place and remain resolute in our commitment to tackling hatred, intolerance and discrimination in all forms.
In a debate to mark Srebrenica Memorial Week in the House of Commons, I highlighted the need to use this anniversary to reiterate ongoing commitments to stamping out the Islamophobia, prejudice and intolerance which led to this genocide.
Today marks the start of #Srebrenica Memorial Week, where we remember the brutal genocide that took place against Bosnian Muslims.
To avoid another Srebrenica happening elsewhere, the very real threat of Islamophobia must be tackled on a global scale. @SrebrenicaUK pic.twitter.com/dd0uvdgRYj
— Afzal Khan MP (@Afzal4Gorton) July 4, 2023
I have been committed to tackling the racism and prejudice which we saw lead to the genocide in Srebrenica, from organising demonstrations in Manchester against the persecution of Europe’s Muslims, to welcoming Croats and Bosniak Muslims fleeing the war. I am so proud of the thriving Bosnian community we have here in Manchester who have experienced such atrocities. Their success is a testament not only to their stoicism and resolve, but to the warm welcome and support Mancunians have given them over the years.
I was pleased to attend the Civic Remembrance Service at Manchester Cathedral, in which we lit candles on behalf of our communities and recommitted to continue to come together as one community against hatred and division.
On this occasion, I join people from across Manchester, UK and the world in remembering and honouring the memory of the victims of the Bosnian genocide, and reiterate my pledge to work towards building a more cohesive, stronger and safer society free from hatred, discrimination and prejudice.
