Muslims in Bosnia - Professor Kenan Ovčina

Public Lecture: Muslims in Bosnia - Professor Kenan Ovčina - 10/11/1015

Markfield Institute was privileged to host a lecture by Professor Kenan Ovčina, Assistant to the Chief Imam of the Mostar Islamic Community in Bosnia, who spoke in detail about the rich history and contemporary religio-political climate of the country.

A fascinating account unfolded detailing how Islam became a striking presence within the Balkans for over 600 years via Ottoman rule, which serves to refute erroneous tropes that Islam is alien to Europe. The acceptance of religious diversity in Bosnia led to Sarajevo being named the Jerusalem of Europe. Within more recent history, following the collapse of Communist rule the former Yugoslavia imploded into war between 1992 - 1995. A Serbian-instigated genocide unfolded resulting in the tragic loss of over 100,000 lives, alongside the displacement of 2 million people. Professor Kenan recalled the massacre at Sarajevo where 7000 men and boys lost their lives due to the abject failure of UN forces to provide protection. As the region struggles to reconcile with the legacy of this conflict and looks to the future with hope, Professor Kenan is instrumental in promoting a harmonious understanding of Islam that sits comfortably within a European milieu.

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