Ards and North Down Marks Srebrenica Memorial Day with Moving Bangor Event
Released: Wednesday 15 July 2026
Ards and North Down Borough Council recently hosted a poignant Srebrenica Memorial Day event at The Courthouse, Bangor, bringing together members of the community to remember the victims of the 1995 genocide and reflect on the importance of challenging hatred, prejudice and division.
Image gallery carousel
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney alongside (L-R) Peter Osborne, Chair of Remembering Srebrenica NI and Safet Vukalic
Remembering Srebrenica
The event marked the 31st anniversary of the genocide at Srebrenica and featured a screening of the acclaimed film Quo Vadis, Aida?, alongside a powerful testimony from Bosnian war survivor Safet Vukalic.
Attendees heard how the genocide claimed the lives of 8,372 Bosnian Muslim men and boys in July 1995, while the wider Bosnian war resulted in the deaths of more than 100,000 people and left communities devastated across the region.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney, said:
"It was a privilege to welcome everyone for this important act of remembrance. As we marked the anniversary of the genocide at Srebrenica, we honoured the memory of the 8,372 men and boys who were murdered and remembered all those affected by the wider conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"The events of July 1995 remain a stark reminder of the consequences of prejudice, dehumanisation and division when they are left unchallenged. Here in Northern Ireland, we understand the damage that can be caused by violence driven by religious, political or identity-based differences.
"Remembering Srebrenica is not only about reflecting on the past; it is about shaping a better future. By remembering, we recommit ourselves to promoting respect, understanding and inclusion, and to challenge hatred wherever we encounter it."
A highlight of the evening was the testimony of Safet Vukalic, who shared his personal experiences of the Bosnian war and the impact it had on his family and community. His story provided a powerful reminder of why remembrance and education remain vital in preventing future atrocities.
The Mayor also thanked Remembering Srebrenica, Council officers and all those involved in organising the event, as well as the residents who attended to show their support for the global message of remembrance, reconciliation and solidarity.
The event forms part of ongoing efforts across Northern Ireland to commemorate Srebrenica Memorial Day and promote understanding, good relations and community cohesion.
Photo Caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Craig Blaney alongside (L-R) Peter Osborne, Chair of Remembering Srebrenica NI and Safet Vukalic.
