KOSTOVIĆ: INCREASED OUTBURSTS OF NATIONALISM ACCOMPANIED BY USTASHA SYMBOLISM

BANJA LUKA, SEPTEMBER 8 /SRNA/ – Historian Aleksandar Kostović has warned of increased outbursts of nationalism accompanied by Ustasha symbolism in Croatia, as well as in certain parts of the Federation of BiH, stating that authorities’ reaction, along with punishment of the perpetrators, could send a clear message that such occurrences will not be tolerated.

Regarding the Ustasha symbols and salute "For the homeland – ready!" in the Serb returnee village of Baćevići near Mostar, Kostović told SRNA that Ustasha insignia, uniforms, and slogans are increasingly being used at public gatherings, such as concerts and festivals, and that such displays often go unpunished and uncondemned, even in a country, the EU member state. "Unfortunately, part of that atmosphere has spilled over into some areas of the Federation of BiH, where individuals emboldened by the lack of an adequate reaction to previous incidents, are harassing Serb returnees," said Kostović. According to him, only a clear condemnation and firm reaction by the relevant authorities, including sanctioning the perpetrators, can send a message that such behaviour will not be tolerated. "Anything else would also be a message — but also a lesson," Kostović concluded. The monument to the fallen soldiers of the National Liberation War /WWII/ and civilian victims in the Serb returnee village of Baćevići near Mostar was found this morning defaced with fascist symbols and the Ustasha slogan "For the homeland-ready!", causing distress among the local population.