In Derventa, Croatian communities face opposition from Serbian groups who are attempting to ban the commemoration of the anniversary of the 103rd Brigade of the Croatian Defence Council (HVO) and remove a monument dedicated to fallen Croatian defenders.
In the town of Derventa, tensions have escalated as Serbian associations are calling for a ban on the commemoration of the anniversary of the 103rd Brigade of the Croatian Defence Council (HVO), scheduled for March 21. The event, which honors the fallen Croatian soldiers, has historically taken place without significant opposition; however, this year has seen a strong backlash from Serbian organizations. The Narodni Front party has also expressed intentions to have the monument dedicated to fallen Croatian defenders removed, further exacerbating the situation.
In response to the threats from Serbian groups, including the Veterans Organization of the Army of the Republika Srpska (BORS), the Croatian party HSP has called upon EUFOR to ensure a peaceful and dignified commemoration of the anniversary. The Serbian groups have gone as far as to announce that they would take matters into their own hands to prevent the gathering if authorities do not intervene. They have also demanded investigations into those organizing the anniversary events, citing alleged use of
