What's happened
Prosecutors in Italy and Bosnia are investigating allegations that foreigners paid thousands of dollars to participate in 'sniper tourism' during the Bosnian War, firing at civilians, including children, with Serbian forces allegedly involved. Authorities aim to identify and prosecute those responsible amid renewed focus on war crimes.
What's behind the headline?
What the papers say
The articles from NY Post, The Independent, and other sources present a consistent narrative of ongoing investigations into 'sniper tourism' during the Bosnian War. The NY Post highlights the emotional impact of victims' families demanding justice, while The Independent emphasizes the international scope, including Americans, Italians, and Russians involved. Ezio Gavazzeni's detailed reporting and testimonies from former soldiers and officials support the credibility of these allegations. However, some experts, like Tim Judah, suggest the scale of participation may be limited, indicating that while the phenomenon is real, it might not have been as widespread as initially feared. The contrast between official investigations and anecdotal reports underscores the complexity of fully uncovering wartime atrocities and the importance of sustained legal efforts.
How we got here
During the Bosnian War (1992-1996), Sarajevo endured a prolonged siege marked by shelling and sniper fire, resulting in over 11,500 deaths. Reports have long suggested that foreign gun enthusiasts paid to shoot civilians, with some trips arranged from Trieste and overseen by Bosnian Serb militias loyal to Radovan Karadzic. Investigations have been ongoing, with recent renewed efforts following allegations of 'sniper tourism' involving foreigners from Italy, the US, and Russia, and possible Serbian state involvement.
Go deeper
Common question
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What is 'sniper tourism' and why is it controversial?
Recent investigations into 'sniper tourism' during the Bosnian War have brought to light disturbing allegations of foreigners paying to shoot at civilians, including children. This practice, linked to the brutal siege of Sarajevo, raises serious questions about war crimes, accountability, and the ongoing legacy of conflict. Curious about what 'sniper tourism' entails, who is being investigated, and what it reveals about wartime atrocities? Read on to find out more.
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