The guest lecture given by ICTY Registry Liaison Officer Almir Alić, at Combined High School in Kalesija generated great interest among fourth year students of economics, mechanical engineering and agriculture studies, as well as the local gymnasium students. For the first time, a group of 40 students had the opportunity to learn about the work of the Tribunal and war crimes trials related to the former Yugoslavia in a clear and systematic manner.
The students discussed the judicial dimension of the facing the past, and the importance of calling those responsible to account. Commenting on the presentation, a 17-year old student said: “Everyone should be held responsible for their crimes, even if they were my closest family members”.
During the discussion, one student reflected on what could be learned from the past and added: “All life is equally important, be it rich or poor, a Muslim or a Christian, and regardless of one’s position. Crimes must not be forgotten. Therefore, a great responsibility rests with us, the young people.”
High School students from Kalesija agreed that more such educational programmes should be included in the curriculum in order for young people to learn more about war crimes and how are they processed.