Genuine reconciliation and lasting peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be achieved without the equal participation of all citizens, including national minorities whose perspectives have too often been excluded from political and public dialogue. This was the central message of the conference "Beyond the 'Others' - Inclusive Reconciliation and the Future of Bosnia and Herzegovina", held today in Sarajevo. Organized by the Jewish Cultural, Educational and Humanitarian Society La Benevolencija, Kali Sara - Roma Information Centre and Olam Aid, with the support of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the event brought together representatives of Jewish and Roma communities, institutions, civil society, academia and international organizations.
Discussions focused on the importance of including national minorities in transitional justice, dealing with the past and reconciliation processes. Participants addressed persistent barriers to political and institutional equality, the recognition of different communities' historical experiences, and the role of young people in strengthening mutual trust, social cohesion and respect for diversity.
The participants concluded that Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be a truly democratic society as long as the rights of certain citizens remain restricted on the basis of their ethnic affiliation or identity. Reconciliation requires confronting the past, acknowledging historical facts, ensuring justice, and building mutual trust. Jews, Roma and other national minorities must be equal participants in shaping the future of BiH, while educating younger generations is essential to overcoming prejudice and divisions. The ultimate goal is not merely to secure greater rights and opportunities for "Others", but to build a Bosnia and Herzegovina where no one is treated as a second-class citizen, diversity is valued rather than seen as an obstacle, and equality is a lived reality rather than merely a principle enshrined in law.
The conference also highlighted the importance of cultural heritage in bringing communities together. An evening cultural programme, "Melodies of Coexistence: A Sephardic and Romani Cultural Evening", celebrated the shared cultural heritage and traditions of Jewish and Roma communities, reinforcing the message that an inclusive future for Bosnia and Herzegovina must be built on equality, mutual understanding and respect for all its citizens.
