About the Initiative
The initiative “March Remembrance”, launched by the NGO Pandurica in cooperation with the Montenegrin–Littoral Metropolitanate and the Diocese of Budimlja–Nikšić, officially began on January 28, 2024, in Nikšić, during the Saint Sava Academy.
The aim of the initiative is to remind and inform both the domestic and international public about the suffering of the Serbian population in Kosovo and Metohija during two key periods:
- March 1999, when the bombing of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia began.
- March 2004, when the March Pogrom took place.
Considering that 2024 marks 25 years since the bombing and 20 years since the pogrom, we wanted to pay tribute to the victims and remind the world that, in the heart of civilized Europe, before the eyes of the modern world, and with the participation of NATO forces, an entire people was expelled:
- 200,000 people were displaced
- Over 2,000 were killed
- Dozens of cultural monuments were destroyed
Symbolism of the Action
The initiative was designed so that by purchasing and wearing a badge in the shape of a Peony flower, a symbol of endurance and suffering, people could pay tribute to the victims and send a message that such events should never happen again. The badges were available in many churches throughout our local Orthodox community and were sold symbolically until Vidovdan (St. Vitus Day).
Promotion & Awareness
Prominent writers, actors, athletes, priests, bishops, and ordinary people supported the initiative, as seen through social media. Additionally, numerous forums and exhibitions were held to better present the purpose and meaning of the initiative.
Funds Raised & Humanitarian Aid
The funds raised from last year’s campaign amounted to €29,000 and were distributed throughout Kosovo and Metohija to those in need. The initiative was carried out in cooperation with the Visoki Dečani Monastery, which helped direct aid to the final beneficiaries.
With the collected funds, essential items were purchased for many Kosovo-Metohija families, including:
- Tractor trailers
- Stoves
- Cows and sheep
- Firewood for heating
Additionally, financial aid was provided for students, families without income, and those in need of medical treatment. Several housing units were renovated, and members of the Pandurica association, together with the monastery monks, visited the families who received assistance.
Future & Mission
We firmly believe that this initiative can continue and will have both a humanitarian and a universal significance, ensuring that the suffering of our people in Kosovo and Metohija is never forgotten and serving as a reminder that such tragedies must never happen again.