Life together indicator | Potoci

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(In)Visible walls

_{Author: Mirza Lalić}

In numerous cities around the world, rivers flow through their landscapes, and Mostar is no exception. The scenic Neretva River gracefully winds its way through Mostar and Potoci, effectively dividing the city into its left and right banks. However, within the collective consciousness, this natural feature has transformed into an intangible barrier. It has become an unseen wall, delineating the city into distinct “this” and “that” side—a reflection of the aspirations held by many during the war that took place approximately three decades ago. During that tumultuous period, all the bridges spanning the Neretva River in our city were intentionally destroyed, turning the river into a tangible symbol of division. Nevertheless, the bridges have since been rebuilt, new ones have emerged, and the cool waters of the Neretva River persist in their steadfast course, serving as a testament to the resilience and unity of the community.

In my youth, the Neretva River in Mostar served as a refuge from the scorching summer heat. It offered us solace and a refreshing escape, and for many of us, it was where we first learned to swim. We regarded the Neretva simply as a river that adorned our city, embodying its essence and the admirable qualities of its inhabitants. The magnificent bridges, renowned for their impeccable design and architectural grandeur, further enhanced the beauty of this beloved watercourse.

Never could we have imagined that, in the future, some individuals would conceive the unthinkable notion of using the Neretva River as an “invisible Berlin Wall,” segregating the city into two shores populated by ethnically homogeneous groups. Despite the devastating destruction of all the bridges spanning the Neretva River during the war, including the iconic Old Bridge protected by UNESCO, we now bear witness to the remarkable reconstruction of each and every bridge. These restored structures not only radiate even greater magnificence but also enhance the allure of both the Neretva River and the city of Mostar.

As a native of this city, I am immensely proud and profoundly connected to its core. My love for my city knows no bounds. I am privileged to have friends residing on both the left and right banks, in what some may perceive as distinct “this” or “that” sides.

During my formative years in the aftermath of the war, I grew up in an environment where the majority belonged to a different ethnic group than myself. I hold vivid memories of the beautiful relationships I forged with my neighbors and friends during that time. Throughout my life, I have never experienced a sense of division or discrimination based on any criteria. This sentiment remains unwavering to this very day.

Despite my own personal experiences, I often encounter the usage of terms like “this side” and “that side” in public discussions, particularly by individuals and media who are not from Mostar. However, in my community and among the people of Mostar, we do not prefer to divide the city in such a manner. While we acknowledge that the city was once divided and that the scars of that division still remain, we strive to move forward together.

I have a vivid memory of a visit from volunteers, possibly from the Netherlands, who came to our school to teach us about coexistence and tolerance. They were taken aback by the diverse composition of our classrooms and the genuine friendships that blossomed among us. As a member of a minority group in our community, they asked me about my feelings and whether I felt threatened. With confidence, I assured them that I had no reason to feel threatened or perceive any differences. What troubled me was their insistence on highlighting something that our community does not dwell upon. The expression of the volunteer shifted to surprise, and a hint of embarrassment flushed their cheeks as my words were translated.

Undoubtedly, the experiences I’ve described are specific to my own life, and as a mature and accountable person, I recognize that there are diverse perspectives on this matter. It is crucial to acknowledge that some individuals still perceive the Neretva River as an intangible divide, a perception that regrettably leads to distressing incidents such as physical assaults on innocent individuals based on differences in religion, names, or even affiliations with football clubs. However, it is disheartening to realize that there is no universal solution for such individuals, whether in Mostar or any other part of the world.