Survivor of Srebrenica massacre speaks in Germany

Nedzad Avdic survived the Srebrenica massacre at 17 and now fights against disinformation about the atrocities.

Survivor of Srebrenica massacre speaks against denialism

SREBRENICA, Bosnia — Nedzad Avdic, at just 17, narrowly escaped a massacre that claimed the lives of over 7,000 Bosnian Muslim men during the Bosnian War. Captured by Bosnian Serb forces, he survived a near-execution after sustaining gunshot wounds. In the years following, he dedicated himself to recounting his harrowing experiences and honoring the victims he lost. Recently, on the 30th anniversary of the massacre, he addressed the German parliament. Avdic faced the alarming rise of denialism as members of the far-right Alternative for Germany party questioned the genocide, despite two international courts classifying it as such. This denouncement reflects a broader trend of disinformation permeating global discussions of historical atrocities, from the Holocaust to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Avdic fearlessly champions the truth, hoping to educate others about the consequences of denialism.

The resurgence of denialism on platforms spurred by far-right movements poses grave risks to historical accountability. As Avdic passionately narrates his survival story, he highlights a critical struggle against the politicization of facts. The alarming trend of rejecting documented atrocities for ideological gain threatens the memory of those who suffered. Avdic’s commitment to truth serves not only as a testament to individual resilience but also as a call to recognize and combat online disinformation. The consequences of forgetting history can reaffirm cycles of hatred and violence, reminding us that vigilance is necessary.

Highlights

Avdic's voice against denialism serves as a reminder of the fragility of truth in public discourse.