–Lutfur Rahman, Editor, 52TV

Ipswich, 6 July 2025 — People from across Ipswich gathered at the Town Hall on Saturday to mark the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, in a moving memorial event calling for unity, remembrance, and an end to genocide worldwide.

The event, organized by Ipswich Borough Council in collaboration with four local mosques, brought together community members of all faiths and backgrounds. Families attended the solemn gathering to honor the memory of more than 8,000 Bosnia Muslim men and boys who were killed in Srebrenica in July 1995 — a tragedy recognized as Europe’s only genocide since the Second World War.

The commemoration began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by opening remarks from Mayor of Ipswich, Councilor Stefan Long, and a welcome speech by the Leader of the Borough Council, Councilor Neil McDonald.

Speakers throughout the evening drew strong parallels between the atrocities in Bosnia and ongoing conflicts around the world, particularly in Gaza. “What happened in Bosnia is now happening in Gaza. For a peaceful world, we must stop all forms of genocide,” was a shared sentiment repeated by several speakers.

Young speaker Mahfuza Siddiqi and human rights worker Shoomi Chowdhury gave heartfelt speeches on the importance of remembering past atrocities and taking action to prevent future ones. “No matter our background, we all have a duty to speak out against injustice,” said Siddiqi.

Representatives from four local mosques also addressed the audience, including Fryad Shamal (Masjid Al Taqwa), Moshud Ali (Shahjalal Masjid), Shakar Kawa (Narwachi Masjid), and Nurul Islam Chowdhury (Ipswich Mosque), all calling for unity and peace.

Local Member of Parliament Jack Abbott attended the event and expressed his full support for the community’s message. “We must never forget the horrors of Srebrenica, and we must stand united against all forms of hatred and violence,” he said.

The memorial concluded with a moment of silence and a renewed commitment from the community to speak out against genocide and uphold human rights wherever they are threatened.