July 11, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Today, as we mark 30 years since the genocide in Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada reflects on and remembers the deaths and disappearance of more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys, as well as the displacement of more than 20,000 women, children and elderly people, who were forcibly expelled from their homes in Srebrenica by Bosnian Serb forces.

“On this most sombre occasion, we honour the memory of the victims and recognize the lasting pain of the survivors and their loved ones as they continue to work toward healing.

“Following a UN General Assembly resolution adopted in May 2024, today is the second International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. Canada is proud to have co-sponsored the resolution as it is important to remember and learn from such horrific periods in our world’s history.

“Canada remains committed to defending the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement and supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and multiethnic character. Peace in the region depends on peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Remembering the crimes and tragedies of the past—and holding accountable those responsible for them—is essential to building a future rooted in justice, reconciliation and lasting peace.”