Dr. Elmi Berisha/
Today, I have the distinct honor and privilege to host an event that goes beyond a ceremonial book promotion. Because today, we pay tribute to more than a personal memoir or a historical account. This is a moral testament, a powerful act of courage to tell the truth in the face of severe consequences which serves as a lesson for all humanity. Ambassador William Walker’s book “Racak: The Story of a War Crime” stands as a living document of a moment that forever changed the history of Kosova and awakened the conscience of the democratic world. This book dives deep into the human pain, the power of justice, and the essential need to never forget.
With the pen of a diplomat and the heart of a humanist, Ambassador Walker offers a powerful and unbiased testimony of what happened on January 15, 1999, in Reçak. He writes not only about what he witnessed with his own eyes – but also about what he felt with his soul. And in that moment when he declared the words we all remember so well: “This is a massacre”, he did not merely make a statement – he reawakened the world’s conscience for a people who were demanding their freedom.
This book is more than an analysis. It is a journey through the life and diplomatic service of a man who did not bow to silence, who did not soften the truth for the sake of protocol, and who, instead of the coldness of bureaucratic reports, chose the discomfort of standing up for the truth and on the side of justice.
In a time when efforts to deny war crimes are present in public discourse – both regionally and internationally – this book reinforces our collective memory, serves as an educational resource for younger generations and a shield against the manipulation of truth.
Dear friends,
Kosova will be forever grateful to Ambassador William Walker. In January 1999 he was an international representative, the Head of Kosova Verification Mission – at that time he became a witness to the truth, and then a symbol of human integrity in dark times. He is a dear friend of the Albanian people forever. This book crowns the deep spiritual connection between him and the people of Kosova.
Published on the 26 year of the Reçak atrocity, his book inspires all of us to continue seeking justice, to never forget the past, and to build a future based on truth and human dignity.
Thank you Ambassador Walker for your words, your actions, your firm stance and continued support.