UNSA Faculty of Catholic Theology | A workshop was held on dealing with the past
From 23 to 30 June 2024, a European workshop dedicated to dealing with the violence-laden past of Bosnia and Herzegovina was held at the Faculty of Catholic Theology withe University of Sarajevo. This significant initiative was organized under the auspices of the “Maximilian Kolbe” foundation and the “Interreligious Studies and Peacebuilding” master's program, and brought together young people from different European countries with the aim of fostering and encouraging a culture of dialogue and peace.
The goal of the workshop was to provide a space for exchanging experiences, learning from good examples from the practice of different countries, and mutual support in the process of acceptance and developing compassion. Participants had the opportunity to share their stories and hear about the ways in which other communities have faced their own challenges related to violent pasts.
The program included a series of activities, including visits to places of suffering such as Kazan, Križančevo selo, Kruščica, Ahmići and Srebrenica, as well as the War Childhood Museum in Sarajevo, where participants could see firsthand the consequences of war on the most vulnerable members of society.
After the day's program, participants had the opportunity to express their impressions and participate in discussions. These evening sessions enabled a deeper understanding and deepening of mutual connections among the participants.
One of the main goals of this workshop was to create a tolerant society in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The participants concluded that it is necessary to continue working on building bridges between different communities, promote dialogue and understanding, and work together to build peace. The workshop ended with socializing with music in the premises of the Vrhbosna Theological Seminary.
This workshop represents an important step towards reconciliation and the building of lasting peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is an excellent example of how cooperation and dialogue can bring about positive changes in a society burdened by a difficult past.
