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AFIC Commemorates the 31st Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide
12 July 2026
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) solemnly commemorates the 31st anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide, one of the darkest chapters in modern European history and a lasting wound for Bosnian Muslims and the global Muslim community.
On 11 July 1995, more than 8,000 Bosniak Muslim men and boys were systematically murdered in and around Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite the area having been declared a United Nations “safe area”. The genocide remains a devastating reminder of the consequences of hatred, racism, dehumanisation and the failure of the international community to protect innocent lives.
Today, AFIC stands in solidarity with the survivors, the families of the victims, and the Bosnian Australian community as they honour the memory of those who were brutally taken from their loved ones. We pray that Allah (SWT) grants His infinite mercy upon the martyrs, comforts their families, and strengthens all those who continue to seek truth, justice and healing.
AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid said the anniversary is a solemn reminder that remembrance must be tied to responsibility.
“Srebrenica was the result of hatred, dehumanisation and the world’s refusal to act with moral courage when innocent people were in danger. As we remember the victims, we must also confront the conditions that allow such atrocities to occur.”
“For Muslim communities, Srebrenica is a deeply painful reminder of where unchecked Islamophobia, racism and political indifference can lead. ‘Never Again’ must never be reduced to a slogan. It must be a commitment to justice, truth and the protection of human dignity wherever people are threatened.”
The lessons of Srebrenica remain as relevant today as ever. We must collectively reject all forms of hatred, discrimination, racism and Islamophobia, while promoting justice, mutual respect and the protection of human dignity.
Remembering Srebrenica is not only about honouring the past. It is about recognising the warning signs of hatred in the present, challenging dehumanising rhetoric wherever it appears, and ensuring that the international community never again stands by while innocent people are targeted because of who they are.
AFIC reaffirms its commitment to working with communities, governments and faith leaders to foster peace, strengthen social cohesion, and uphold the universal values of justice, compassion and human rights.
As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, AFIC encourages all Australians to learn from history, stand against hatred in all its forms, and work together to build a future founded on peace, understanding and respect for every human being.
“Never Again” must be more than words. It must remain our shared commitment and collective responsibility.
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AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President |
