experience in Yugoslavia

The Muslim experience in Yugoslavia is far from over. Its leadership is sailing into the unchartered stormy waters of a new world. The recent chain of events within and outside the country on the one extreme portend the inevitability of the breakup of Yugoslavia into mini-states. On the other extreme, a situation in which the concept of a 'Greater Serbia' may become a reality. In keeping with the Islamic tradition of moderation (wasata), the elected Muslim leadership of Bosnia and Herzegovina seem to favor a middle road between these two extremes. That is, an end in which the territorial and political integrity of Yugoslavia be maintained along with its existing internal republic borders. The political and economic authority of the federal government over the republics would be drastically curtailed and its roles specifically delineated. This would result in more of a 'confederation' than a 'federation' of republics (states). The Muslims insist that the territorial and political integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina remain intact and undivided irrespective of the new model of Yugoslavia that eventually emerges.

The breakup of Yugoslavia seems imminent. The only question that seems to remain is 'how'? Considering the historic role of Muslims in Yugoslavia and the West's general antagonism toward Islam and Muslims, a possible outcome would be one in which the territorial and political integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina would be compromised. Its counties would subsequently be divided up according to some mutually agreed upon formula between Serbia on the one hand and Croatia on the other. This worst possible scenario would have to carry with it the blessings of the European Community, the Soviet Union and the United States (which may have already been unofficially given).

The future will to a great extent be determined on what steps are taken now. The Muslim leadership of Yugoslavia should keep the following critical points in mind:

1. History is the best teacher. The Qur'anic paradigm is one which asks man continuously to look to the past in order to gauge future actions. To forget and bury the past as some have suggested is a mistake; as it will cause one to lose the ability to build on its successes as well as make one a victim of its mistakes. Furthermore, the Truth will remain hidden from view. No one should fear the Truth for ultimately the Truth will set one free.

2. Every effort should be made to publicize among Muslims and non-Muslims alike (both people and nations) the plight and struggle of the Muslims of Yugoslavia. For one never knows, 'from where the assistance of Allah will come'.

3. All endeavors should be undertaken to work towards a peaceful and equitable solution to the ugly possibilities which are faced, but reliance for a Muslim is ultimately tied to his preparation for the worst (in other words making the necessary preparations for securing ones person), trust in Allah and the continued support of the True Believers.