ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines five lessons from the Yugoslav wars of the 1990s that offer insights for addressing issues of peace and justice in Russia's war on Ukraine and beyond. First, it emphasizes the timing of peace negotiations, noting how military stalemates and economic exhaustion, as seen in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and Kosovo, increased belligerents’ willingness to negotiate. Second, the chapter underscores the need for peace missions with clear mandates and defined end dates, such as the UN mission in Eastern Slavonia, to prevent endless reliance on international actors. Third, the Yugoslav experience highlights the importance of consistent international responses to maintain credibility; past errors weakened international actors’ authority in peace processes. Fourth, balancing justice and peace efforts is essential; while legal accountability needs to be considered during peace talks, long-term peace requires a sense of justice. Finally, the chapter argues that focusing solely on legal prosecution risks overlooking recovery for war-affected populations – both victims and veterans. Instead, reparative approaches that address their needs are vital for lasting recovery and healing. The chapter argues that sustainable peace must be led domestically but with international assistance that is both context-sensitive and carefully planned.
