Zepa

29 years ago today, the enclave of Žepa in BiH was overtaken by Serb forces. Žepa had been declared a UN safe area in 1993 but became the next target of VRS forces after they committed genocide at Srebrenica two weeks prior. Civilians of Žepa were offered the chance to evacuate the enclave, which many did knowing the fate that awaited them if they stayed would be far worse. When asked if she was leaving on her own volition, one woman responded “No, I want to stay in my home, but who will protect me?”. Today, we remember the victims from Žepa & the survivors who were forced out of their hometown. 29 years on they still face denial from authorities that the crimes they witnessed actually took place. The survivors' dignity in the face of such denial is testament to their strength.