What prompted Serbia’s strong response to the UN resolution on Srebrenica?

The Serbian government and public opinion have strongly criticized the UN General Assembly’s decision to pass a resolution commemorating the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica. Belgrade views the declaration as part of a broader Western political and diplomatic offensive against Serbia, encompassing issues such as Kosovo and the Bosnian question. The resolution, which designates 11 July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the Srebrenica Genocide, has been met with resistance from Serbian officials.

President Aleksandar Vučić’s reluctance to join EU sanctions against Russia has strained relations with Western countries. Serbia’s potential EU membership may be jeopardized, as Euroscepticism in the country has grown. The resolution excludes Serbian collective responsibility for the genocide, a move that has raised concerns in Serbia about potential misuse of the resolution in international forums.

The resolution comes at a time when Serbia is preparing for key local elections and facing challenges related to its stance on various international issues. The country’s historical context, including its role in the wars of the former Yugoslavia, continues to shape its political landscape.

As the region grapples with unresolved conflicts and geopolitical tensions, the commemoration of the Srebrenica genocide serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Bosnian war. The debate surrounding the resolution reflects deeper divisions and complexities within the Balkan region, highlighting the ongoing struggle for reconciliation and justice.