The Role of Serbia in the Conflicts of the 1990s and Its Lasting Impact: A Historical Perspective

The involvement of Serbia in the conflicts of the 1990s cannot be overlooked. Historian Hrvoje Klasić emphasized this in an interview with N1, stating that units of the Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA) and various paramilitary formations from Serbia played significant roles in the wars in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina during this period. The involvement of these groups was orchestrated and supported by the leadership in Belgrade.

Klasić addressed recent statements by Milorad Dodik, who claimed that Croatia was the aggressor in Bosnia and Herzegovina while exonerating Serbia. Klasić dismissed this as a distortion of historical facts, highlighting that while Croatia did play an active role in the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia also had a hand in supporting and enabling military operations in the region.

Despite accusations of genocide in Srebrenica, Klasić pointed out that the leadership of Republika Srpska received logistical support from Serbia. While Serbia was not directly accused of the genocide, it failed to prevent it or hold perpetrators accountable, indicating complicity in the events of the Bosnian war.

The interview shed light on the complex dynamics of the conflicts in the Balkans and challenged misconceptions about the roles of various parties involved. Klasić’s analysis underscored the intricate relationships between political and military entities in the region and highlighted their lasting impact on post-conflict reconstruction efforts.

The wars of 1990s were marked by widespread atrocities against civilians, including women, children, and elderly people. The conflicts resulted in millions of displaced persons who fled their homes due to violence and persecution.

Serbia’s role during these conflicts cannot be ignored as it contributed significantly to perpetuating violence against other ethnic groups. The involvement of JNA units and paramilitary formations from Serbia highlights how political leaders supported military operations that resulted