The International Balkan University (IBU), through its Balkan Research Center, organized a significant scientific conference titled “Three Decades after the Dayton Agreement: The Legacy of Alija Izetbegović.” The event was dedicated to honoring the life, thought, and historical importance of President Alija Izetbegović, marking thirty years since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, a milestone that ended the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina and reshaped the political landscape of the Balkans.

The conference gathered distinguished guests, academics, diplomats, and scholars who reflected on Izetbegović’s philosophical, political, and humanistic legacy. His leadership, moral vision, and intellectual depth were discussed as enduring examples of courage and faith in humanity during one of the most challenging periods of modern European history. The event served as both a commemoration and a platform for dialogue on peace, justice, and moral responsibility in the contemporary world.

The opening remarks were delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Flamur Ismaili, Coordinator of the Balkan Research Center, who formally opened the conference and expressed his gratitude to all participants and institutions involved. He emphasized that the Balkan Research Center remains committed to promoting academic reflection and regional dialogue on topics of history, justice, and reconciliation, values deeply connected to Alija Izetbegović’s life and work.

Following the opening, the Rector of the International Balkan University, Prof. Dr. Lütfi Sunar, greeted all guests and participants, expressing pride that IBU serves as a bridge for intellectual and cultural dialogue in the Balkans. In his address, Prof. Sunar highlighted that the university’s vision and mission are aligned with the principles Izetbegović stood for, including knowledge, integrity, and humanity. He noted that education and moral leadership are essential for shaping societies guided by peace and justice.

The keynote speech was delivered by Prof. Sabina Izetbegović, daughter of President Alija Izetbegović and President of the Alija Izetbegović Foundation. She expressed that it was a profound honor to be present at the International Balkan University and thanked the organizers for dedicating such an event to her father’s memory. In her address, she spoke about the importance of maintaining remembrance through academic platforms and expressed her belief that such gatherings ensure that his ideas and vision continue to inspire new generations.

As part of the program, participants also had the honor to watch a historical video of Alija Izetbegović’s speech delivered in Tetovo in 1990. The powerful words of his message, centered on unity, humanity, and perseverance, deeply moved the audience and reminded everyone of his lifelong commitment to truth and moral responsibility.

The panel session featured distinguished speakers who shared their academic and personal reflections. Mr. Faris Nanić, Advisor and former Chief of Cabinet to President Izetbegović, spoke about the intellectual depth, faith, and humanity that guided the Bosnian leader’s political and personal life. He reflected on the impact of the Bosnian genocide, emphasizing how the nation’s strength and resilience became a testimony of moral endurance and collective hope.

Prof. Ferid Muhic, a renowned philosopher and academic, presented an analysis of Bosnia’s development and identity thirty years after the Dayton Agreement. He drew profound parallels between the Bosnian experience and current global crises, including the humanitarian suffering in Gaza, emphasizing that the memory of genocide should serve as a universal reminder of humanity’s shared responsibility to prevent injustice.

Prof. Dr. Kire Sharlamanov from the Faculty of Law at IBU concluded the discussion by addressing the sociological dimensions of war, trauma, and collective memory. He highlighted how societies interpret their past, and how the remembrance of Bosnia’s genocide continues to shape global awareness about peace, tolerance, and the protection of human rights.

Through this remarkable event, the International Balkan University and its Balkan Research Center reaffirmed their mission to serve as a platform for dialogue, knowledge, and remembrance. By honoring Alija Izetbegović, a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and moral leadership, IBU continues to uphold its vision of promoting education, understanding, and peace across generations and nations.