General Philippe Morillon, Who Promised to Never Abandon Srebrenica, Dies at 90
French commander's pledge to besieged civilians preceded Europe's worst massacre since World War II
Morillon made his promise in March 1993 while commanding UN peacekeeping forces in Bosnia. Despite his personal pledge, UN forces were unable to prevent Serb forces from overrunning Srebrenica in July 1995, when more than 8,000 Bosniak Muslim men and boys were systematically executed.
The general spent the rest of his life haunted by events he could not prevent, later testifying at war crimes tribunals and advocating for stronger intervention mandates for peacekeeping forces.
Analysis
Why This Matters
Morillon's life embodies the tragedy and limitations of international intervention in ethnic conflict.
Background
The Srebrenica massacre led to NATO intervention in Bosnia and reshaped international doctrine on protecting civilians.
Key Perspectives
Some view Morillon as a symbol of failed promises. Others note he pushed for stronger action when Western capitals refused.
What to Watch
How his legacy is remembered as conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine raise similar questions about international protection.