The Dangers of Genocide Denial

Research output

Complete citation

Poljarević, Emin. “The Dangers of Genocide Denial.” Islamic Horizons 49, no. 4 (July–August 2020).

Status

Published

Publication type

Public scholarship / commentary

Overview

This commentary examines genocide denial as a continuing political practice rather than a dispute confined to the interpretation of past events. Focusing on the Bosnian genocide and its aftermath, it asks why denial remains dangerous for survivors, democratic institutions, and prospects for durable peace. The article explains how denial minimises established crimes, rehabilitates perpetrators, intimidates witnesses and survivors, and makes exclusionary political projects appear legitimate. It treats public memory as an ethical and institutional concern: acknowledging documented violence is necessary for accountability, social repair, and protection against renewed dehumanisation. The article argues that denial is not neutral scepticism. It is an intervention in the present that redistributes credibility and dignity between perpetrators and victims. Its contribution is to connect historical truth, moral responsibility, and prevention, showing why serious engagement with genocide denial belongs within wider struggles for human rights and civic security.

Research question or central concern

Why does denial of the Bosnian genocide remain a present danger to survivors, democratic accountability, and the prevention of renewed violence?

Main argument, approach, and contribution

The article argues that genocide denial is an active political practice that protects perpetrators, harms survivors, and normalises exclusionary projects. It links historical recognition to accountability, human dignity, and prevention.

Keywords

genocide denial; Bosnia; Srebrenica; memory; human rights; accountability; prevention