On May 24, 2008 Women in Black Network – Serbia activists began once more their trip to Višegrad. The occasion is the 16th anniversary of the crimes committed against the Bosniak civilians from Višegrad and surrounding areas. Within only a few days, three thousand innocent Bosnians were killed. The youngest victim was only 2 days old. Standing on the bridge (which was made world-famous by Nobel Prize Winner Ivo Andrić), we joined together with members of the association “Višegrad ‘92” as well as members of other associations composed of Bosniaks who fled from the Višegrad region, to pay tribute to the Bosnian civilians who were killed here, and to share our empathy with the families of the victims.
Activists of the Women in Black Network come to Višegrad each year on the 24th of May, and on the 25th of May, they participate in a commemorative gathering. Various journalists also travel with the Women in Black Network, and this year a representative of the Humanitarian Law Center was there as well. This event brought together prominent politician Zeljko Komsić, as well as leaders of the Islamic Community of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina; journalists and reporters also participated.
At the gathering, we demanded that all war criminals be held responsible for their deeds, including those from Višegrad. We named in particular the owner of the restaurant “Lovac” in Višegrad.
The president of Women in Black, Staša Zajović, accused Serbian politicians of not cooperating with the Hague tribunal, of sheltering criminals, of refusing to extradite the accused to the court at Shevenignan, and of continuing the type of fascist politics practiced by Slobodan Milošević.
After the commemoration was finished, members of the associations joined with the victims’ families, who were forced to flee Višegrad and what is now Republika Srpska, to throw 3,000 roses in to the Drina River.
Afterwards, Women in Black threw a wreath made of white roses into the river, and then we all went to the Višegrad cemetery. Women in Black activists spent two hours there with the families of the victims. Everyone surrounding us gave us warm looks, greetings and hugs. They expressed their gratitude for our presence at the commemoration, for showing respect for the innocent Višegrad Bosniaks, and for our sincere compassion for their families.
Upon our departure from Višegrad, Women in Black Network activists were given presents and provisions for the journey home, as well as the desire for a reunion in the future. We said our goodbyes with kisses and hugs.
Written by: Persa Vucic
