The University of Sarajevo, a member of the EUPeace Alliance, hosted the opening of the exhibition Sarajevo – From War to Peace. Thirty Years Later, reaffirming its commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, and the preservation of collective memory.
More than Statistics
Created by Italian journalist and war correspondent Franco Giuliano, the exhibition tells the story of Sarajevo through letters written by children during the siege of the city. Rather than focusing on statistics and destruction, it gives voice to young people whose hopes, fears, and resilience continue to remind us of the human cost of war.
From the Past to the Future
Opening the exhibition, Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Prof. Kemal Durić emphasised that universities have a responsibility not only to educate future professionals but also to foster values of peace, mutual understanding, and social responsibility. He stressed that the exhibition’s message is universal: preserving memory is essential for preventing future conflicts and building a more peaceful world.
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The Youth and Education as Important Actors for International Dialogue
Italian Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarah Eti Castellani, highlighted the importance of keeping the experiences of Sarajevo alive, especially at a time when armed conflicts continue to affect communities around the world. She underlined the role of young people and education in strengthening dialogue and cooperation across borders.
Alignment with the EUPeace Alliance
The exhibition also resonated strongly with the mission of the EUPeace Alliance, which promotes peace, justice, and inclusive societies through education, research, and civic engagement. During the opening, former President of the Student Parliament of the University of Sarajevo Imran Pašalić reflected on the Students’ Peace Declaration, an initiative launched within EUPeace activities.
The EUPeace Students’ Peace Declaration Unites Voices for Peace
The Declaration, first signed in Sarajevo in September 2025, brings together universities worldwide in a shared commitment to peace and solidarity with people affected by war. Today, it has been endorsed by more than 160 universities, demonstrating the growing role of higher education institutions in advocating for peace and human dignity.
Inspriring Action through Memory
By bringing together historical testimony, international cooperation, and student engagement, the exhibition illustrates how universities can serve as spaces where memory inspires action. For the University of Sarajevo and the EUPeace Alliance, remembering the past is not only about preserving history – it is about empowering future generations to become active builders of peace.
