Wirral will today mark 25 years since the Bosnian genocide in Srebrenica - bringing together partners from local organisations to commemorate the tragedy and remember its victims.

The Srebrenica massacre saw more than 8,000 people murdered on the basis of their ethnicity and religion (ethnic cleansing). The United Nations later described the events as "the worst atrocity on European soil since World War Two".

To mark the anniversary, Wirral Council will join local councillors and representatives from Christ Church Bebington, Wirral Deen Centre, Remembering Srebrenica North West, and the National Education Union for a Facebook Live event on Saturday 11 July between 11am-12pm. The public are welcome to attend.

The online commemoration will include readings and a short video, plus candle lighting and educational links - including information about the actions people take against hate crime.

Superintendent Gary O'Rourke, Area Commander at Merseyside Police, said: "On this important memorial week we remember the lives lost in Srebrenica. This act of genocide is an important reminder to both Merseyside Police and our partners to continue to continue to build strong community relations on a local level to prevent hate crimes.
"The local policing teams are constantly working alongside partners to educate people about the devastating effect of hate crime on victims, and to support victims who have the confidence to come forward and report matters.
"We would urge anyone who witnesses an incident, even if you are not the victim, to please come forward and report it."

Alongside this event, Wirral will fly 11 flags featuring the 11 petal Srebrenica logo and the message 'Love is Stronger Than Hate'.

Cllr Tom Usher, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “It’s important that we remember the victims of Srebrenica, and raise awareness of the appalling events which led so many innocent people to lose their lives.

“As we approach the 25th anniversary of the tragedy, it’s vital that we continue to take a stand against hatred and violence in all its forms, and protect those who are facing prejudice towards any aspect of their identity.”

Wirral's 11 Remembering Srebrenica flags 

  • Wallasey Town Hall (two flags)
  • Birkenhead Town Hall (two flags)
  • Floral Pavilion (two flags)
  • Solar Campus
  • Wirral Deen Centre 
  • Christ Church Bebington 
  • Birkenhead Central Library
  • Wirral Change