On Saturday, July 12, 2025, the International Youth Association, in cooperation with the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities and the International University of Sarajevo (IUS), organized a commemorative program marking a dual anniversary - the 100th year of Alija Izetbegović's birth, the first President of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide - two deeply interconnected legacies of resistance and justice.
The event brought together numerous distinguished guests, including H.E. Emin Akseki, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Bosnia and Herzegovina; Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, Rector of IUS; Major Harun Hodžić, war-time commander; Mr. Yahya Uyar, President of the International Youth Association; Mr. Süleyman Ragıp Yazıcılar, editor and writer of Genç magazine, as well as many others.
The program opened with welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, who commended the young participants of the March of Peace and reflected on the importance of remembering the Srebrenica Genocide - as well as other atrocities across the world, including the ongoing genocide in Gaza. He emphasized that the wisdom of Alija Izetbegović continues to inspire generations, especially in times of injustice.
Ambassador Akseki also acknowledged the March of Peace participants, underlining that Alija Izetbegović was more than a political leader - he was a visionary thinker, statesman, and commander who left a lasting mark on the Muslim world. He reminded the audience that remembrance is key: “To not forget Srebrenica, we must speak about it - just as we do for Gaza.”
Major Harun Hodžić gave a powerful account of Bosnia's painful history, noting that Bosniaks have endured 11 genocides since the Congress of Berlin, with Srebrenica being the most devastating. He stressed that while Bosniaks were denied the right to defend themselves, they found the strength to resist. Alija Izetbegović, he noted, had the foresight to navigate complex diplomatic waters, and his advice to youth - “Be educated, be truthful, be brave” - remains timeless.
Mr. Yahya Uyar expressed honor in joining the Peace March and reiterated that Izetbegović was not only a president but a profound man of wisdom. He called on youth to resist injustice in every form and to act wherever help is needed.
Mr. Süleyman Ragıp Yazıcılar reminded the audience of the moral imperative to remember tragedies like Srebrenica and to stand against ongoing atrocities such as the genocide in Gaza. Reflecting on Alija Izetbegović's legacy, he stated: “The enemy's goal was to erase Bosnia's Muslim population, but Alija resisted with dignity and unwavering resolve.”
A heartfelt moment in the program came with a musical performance by Turkish artist Mr. Yusuf Göncagül, whose songs added emotional depth to the occasion. Another notable aspect of the program was the inclusion of Alija Izetbegović’s timeless quotes, especially those directed toward youth:
“An educated generation is the guarantee of a free society.”
“Freedom begins with responsibility. Youth must be the first to understand this.”
These words serve as a powerful reminder that freedom is not merely inherited - it must be understood, fought for, and built.
