We, the Children of Srebrenica – Melbourne INC., write to you with urgency and deep concern over the escalating separatist rhetoric and threats to the sovereignty of Bosnia and Herzegovina. ​Our organisation comprises survivors and descendants of survivors of the Srebrenica Genocide, alongside individuals dedicated to preserving historical truth, combating genocide denial, raising awareness, and advocating for justice and human rights.

Today, we are alarmed by the increasing push towards secession by the leadership of Republika Srpska, particularly by its President, Milorad Dodik. His ongoing threats to dismantle state institutions, undermine the Dayton Peace Agreement and pursue unilateral actions pose a direct risk to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s territorial integrity and stability. These developments mirror the early warning signs of the 1992–1995 Bosnian and Herzegovinian War, which resulted in genocide, ethnic cleansing, and mass displacement – tragedies the world vowed never to allow again.

The international community must not remain passive. The lessons of history have taught us that inaction in the face of nationalist extremism can lead to devastating consequences. Bosnia and Herzegovina stand at a crossroads, and we fear that if urgent measures are not taken, history may repeat itself.

As a nation that upholds democracy, human rights, and international law, Australia has a moral and political responsibility to stand in solidarity with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Australian Bosnian and Herzegovinian community, comprising over 28,000 individuals who have called Australia home for the past 30 years, actively contributes to the nation and upholds its values. Many, as war survivors and refugees, remain deeply committed to preventing Bosnia and Herzegovina from once again becoming a battleground of division and violence.

Australia has long supported global peace and stability and now is the time to reaffirm that commitment in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Failure to act could embolden separatist movements and set a dangerous precedent for undermining established international borders.

We respectfully urge the Australian Government and Members of Parliament to:

1. Publicly condemn the separatist rhetoric and actions threatening Bosnia & Herzegovina’s stability.
2. Reaffirm Australia’s support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s territorial integrity through diplomatic statements.
3. Collaborate with international allies (EU, UK, US, UN) to prevent further destabilisation.
4. Consider targeted diplomatic measures or sanctions against those actively working to destabilise Bosnia & Herzegovina.
5. Raise awareness in Parliament about the risks Bosnia & Herzegovina faces and the need for Australia to take a proactive stance.

We are at a critical juncture where proactive diplomacy can prevent conflict, protect democracy, and uphold the principles of international law.

We urge you to act swiftly.

Sincerely, 

Children of Srebrenica