15 Apr 2024 | 05:34 PM UTC
BiH: Government-sponsored demonstration to take place in Banja Luka April 18
Authorities planning protest at Krajina Square in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from 18:00 April 18. Heightened security likely.
Republika Srpska authorities are organizing a rally at Krajina Square (Trg Krajine) from 18:00 April 18. The purpose of the demonstration is to denounce the international community's alleged unfair treatment of Republika Srpska; the event will take place in the run-up a planned UN General Assembly debate relating to the Srebrenica Genocide. It is unclear how many participants may attend; however, given the official nature of the gathering, it could draw very large crowds.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near Krajina Square through the day and into the night of April 18. Confrontations between demonstrators and counter-protesters cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the protest area as a standard precaution. Allow additional time if traveling near Krajina Square on April 18. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
Although the proposed UN resolution would not be legally binding, Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik declared the resolution the "destruction of the possibility to live together" with the rest of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Consequently, Dodik declared that he would consider declaring the independence of Republika Srpska should the UN adopt the resolution.
The UN proposal in question concerns whether or not to declare July 11 an international day of remembrance of the Srebrenica Genocide and to condemn denial of the mass killing. The UN General Assembly will debate the declaration on April 24 before likely voting on its adoption on May 2.
