Delegation of the Islamic Community at the Commemoration in Villefranche-de-Rouergue

A delegation of the Islamic Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, led by the Mufti for Western Europe, Senaid ef. Kobilica, and Dr. Dževada Garić, Head of the Department for International Cooperation and Bosniak Diaspora, participated in this year’s commemoration in the town of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, France, marking the anniversary of the city’s liberation from Nazi occupation.

Alongside representatives of the Riyasat, the commemoration was also attended by members of the Islamic Community of Bosniaks in France, particularly from the congregations (džemats) of Lyon, Paris, and Strasbourg. Among those present were the Chief Imam of France, Isah ef. Dacić; the president of the umbrella organization of the Islamic Community of Bosniaks in France, Šefadil Ličina; the president of the Lyon džemat, Samin Mujezinović; as well as džemat board members Hasudin Mujkić, Sejdalija Hukić, and Aldin Hasanović.

The commemoration is organized by the mayor of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, with whom the Islamic Community, through its Department for International Cooperation and the Bosniak Diaspora, has been building a partnership and fostering a culture of remembrance for several years.

It is worth recalling that on September 17, 1943, a significant armed uprising against Nazi occupation took place in this French town, organized by Bosniaks mobilized within the then Handžar Division. This uprising holds exceptional historical importance, as it was the first armed rebellion within the Waffen SS. Thanks to this revolt, Villefranche-de-Rouergue became the first liberated city in France during World War II. To mark the event, a memorial park was established with plaques in both Bosnian and French, alongside the flags of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, France, and the European Union. The commemoration is held every year on September 17, with the participation of local, regional, and national authorities, as well as representatives of embassies and various associations.