Institute for the Research of Genocide Canada
23.07.2024
German Press Council – Deutscher Presserat
Fritscherstr. 27/28
10585 Berlin
Letter regarding the article published in Deutsche Welle on July 18, 2024, entitled “Islamic tendencies in the Western Balkans” by Claudia Mende
Dear Members of the German Press Council,
On behalf of the Institute for the Research of Genocide Canada, we are writing to express our deep concern regarding an article published by Deutsche Welle on July 18, 2024, titled “Islamistische Tendenzen auf dem Westbalkan” by Claudia Mende. As an institution dedicated to the study and documentation of genocides, we find it troubling that the article discusses the fate of Bosniaks during the 1990s without once mentioning the genocide that was perpetrated against them.
This omission is not a mere oversight; it significantly distorts the historical context and understanding of the events in Bosnia. The genocide against Bosniaks is a documented atrocity recognized by international courts and scholars. Neglecting to acknowledge this genocide while discussing the political and social developments in Bosnia during the 1990s is akin to writing about the fate of Jews in Germany during the 1940s without mentioning the Holocaust.
Such an omission not only represents a historical inaccuracy but also constitutes disinformation. By failing to mention the genocide, the article provides a skewed version of events that misleads readers and distorts the truth. Disinformation, by definition, involves the deliberate dissemination of false or misleading information, and while this may not be intentional, the effect remains the same: it undermines the gravity of the crimes committed and diminishes the suffering of the victims.
Furthermore, the article includes maps of the Balkans where the Bosniak population is counted, which starkly resembles the pre-genocide maps drawn by Radovan Karadžić prior to the genocide in Bosnia. These maps were used to justify ethnic cleansing and genocide, making their inclusion in the article particularly alarming and insensitive. This approach echoes the propagandist tactics of Joseph Goebbels, who manipulated information to dehumanize Jews and justify their persecution.
This type of reporting is deeply disrespectful to the victims and survivors of the genocide. It contributes to a dangerous revisionism that can hinder reconciliation and justice. Accurate and comprehensive reporting is essential to honor the memory of those who suffered and to educate future generations about the atrocities committed.
Failure to address this issue would not only signify tacit approval of disinformation but also a failure to uphold the ethical standards of journalism. It would set a dangerous precedent, allowing the distortion of historical truths and potentially fostering an environment where such atrocities could be repeated.
We urge You to address this issue by reinforcing the importance of comprehensive and accurate historical reporting among its members. Journalists have a duty to present the truth, particularly when discussing topics of such profound human significance. The genocide against Bosniaks, much like the Holocaust, is a critical part of our shared history that must be acknowledged and remembered to prevent future atrocities.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to your response and hope to see a commitment to more responsible and truthful journalism in future publications.
Sincerely,
Emir Ramić
Director of the Institute for the Research of Genocide Canada
Esad Širbegović
Member of the International Expert Team of the Institute for the Research of Genocide Canada
