Harrow Council agreed to continue its tradition of remembering the victims of the Srebrenica massacre.

Speaking at a full council meeting last night, several councillors mentioned the need to learn from the Bosnian genocide, to ensure that nothing similar happens again.

Many recounted tales of trips to the Balkans, where they noted how the scars of war are yet to fully heal.

Cllr Sue Anderson said: “We must continue to remember Srebrenica, as it will promote community cohesion, bring people together and, hopefully, lessons will be learnt.”

Her words were echoed by Cllr Peymana Assad who encouraged schools across Harrow to teach their pupils about the Bosnian Genocide.

In July 1995, more than 8,000 Muslim Bosnians, predominantly men and boys, were murdered by Bosnian Serbs.

Many others, particularly women and girls from the supposedly-safe enclave of Srebrenica, were violently abused.

Some of those responsible have been imprisoned for war crimes and, each year, more and more victims are being formally reburied.

Cllr Paul Osborn, leader of Harrow Conservatives, said it was “truly awful” that powers were unable to prevent this and that “we need to make sure this never happens again”.

And Cllr Sarah Butterworth, making her maiden speech in the council chamber, pointed out that, while this was a horrific tragedy, some light does shine through in the form of those who took a stand.

She said: “There are stories of home and inspiration. We can engage with our community through this and learn about what it means to stand up and show courage.”

The council held a formal memorial ceremony for the victims of Srebrenica on July 12 to mark the 28th anniversary of the event.