Untold Stories: The Bosnia Series - The Other Archive

Shahid Butt, a former foreign fighter in Bosnia and Afghanistan, shares powerful personal reflections on the Bosnian conflict, emphasizing lessons on resilience and unity. Dr. Adnan Siddiqui, representing Cage, provides critical insights into the realities of war in the 90s, discussing the complexities of nationalism and foreign influence in the Balkans. The conversation delves into the potential for harmony through Islamic principles, warning against unresolved tensions that could threaten peace in the region.

About this episode A discussion with a scholar and educator who bridges tradition, education and identity, rooted in Bosnian heritage. Guest: Abu Bilal Sanel Haskić — An imam and education specialist, known for his work in establishing and managing Islamic schools. He studied Shariah in Saudi Arabia, specialising in Fiqh and Aqeedah, and has translated various Islamic texts from Arabic into both German and English. Of Bosnian heritage through his father, he also leads annual tour groups to Bosnia. 👉 Follow The Other Archive 🎙️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6vLmqoomvNZzhqOHAoeSpa 📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@TheOtherArchive 🍏 Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4mNTlXz 📸 Instagram: @TheOtherArchive1 🎵 TikTok: @TheOtherArchive 🐦 X: @otherarchive1 💡 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/theotherarchive

Babar Ahmad, a survivor of torture and the longest-serving British citizen detained without charge, shares his gripping journey from South London to the Bosnian War. He recalls the moral awakening that led him to abandon academia for arms, the camaraderie among foreign fighters, and the emotional scars of conflict. Ahmad reflects on the complexities of intervention, the pursuit of martyrdom, and a redefined masculinity grounded in humility and compassion. His poignant memories shed light on the costs of war and the enduring impact of brotherhood in adversity.

Shahid Butt, a British citizen and former foreign fighter with a remarkable journey through conflicts in Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Yemen, shares his compelling experiences. He recounts his transformation from a troubled youth in Birmingham to a key advocate for the oppressed. Shahid explores his crisis of conscience, his spiritual awakening, and the personal impact of war. He reflects on identity struggles, the harsh realities of detention, and the parallels between Bosnia's historical oppression and modern challenges facing Muslim communities today.

Moazzam Begg, a former detainee and activist, shares his harrowing journey as a foreign fighter in Bosnia during the war. He reflects on the complexities of identity and faith amidst conflict. Joining him is a firsthand account from an aid worker who recalls the struggles faced while delivering humanitarian assistance. Their powerful narratives highlight themes of resilience, community, and the importance of historical awareness in preventing future atrocities. Together, they shed light on the significance of standing by those in need during crises.

About this episode A look at how news of the war reached the UK and how Muslims in Britain responded. Guests share their personal reactions, reflections and what the conflict meant to them. Guests: Jahangir Mohammed — Director of the UK-based Muslim think tank, the Ayaan Institute. A prolific writer, thinker, and commentator on global Muslim affairs, with 28 years of experience studying and analysing Islamic and jihad movements. Dr Adnan Siddiqui — Director of CAGE International and a full-time GP based in London. He regularly delivers lectures on Muslim issues and is at the forefront of advocacy for communities affected by the War on Terror. 👉 Follow The Other Archive 🎙️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6vLmqoomvNZzhqOHAoeSpa 📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@TheOtherArchive 🍏 Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4mNTlXz 📸 Instagram: @TheOtherArchive1 🎵 TikTok: @TheOtherArchive 🐦 X: @otherarchive1 💡 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/theotherarchive

About this episode The first half explores how the Bosnian War broke out. The second half, George, a Serbian guest, shares his experience growing up during the conflict, offering a rare glimpse into life on the other side. Guests: Haris Tagari — A UK-based journalist and historian. Petrit — A Balkan political analyst based in London. Ayub — A political analyst based in Germany. George — A Serbian guest sharing his experience growing up during the conflict. 👉 Follow The Other Archive 🎙️ Spotify: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-other-archive 📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@TheOtherArchive 🍏 Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4mNTlXz 📸 Instagram: @TheOtherArchive1 🎵 TikTok: @TheOtherArchive 🐦 X: @otherarchive1 💡 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/theotherarchive

In this engaging discussion, journalist and historian Haris Tagari dives into the complex history of the Balkans, shedding light on the region's Muslim identity shaped by the Ottoman Empire. Political analyst Ayub, with his insights as a local, shares the transformation of Bosnia from a cultural beacon to a war-torn zone. Petrit highlights the impact of Yugoslavia's disintegration on ethnic tensions and the resilience of communities. Together, they unravel the intricate blend of history, culture, and politics that continues to shape the Balkans today.

Short informal introductory mic test for the Bosnia series. 👉 Follow The Other Archive 🎙️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6vLmqoomvNZzhqOHAoeSpa 📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@TheOtherArchive 🍏 Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4mNTlXz 📸 Instagram: @TheOtherArchive1 🎵 TikTok: @TheOtherArchive 💡 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/theotherarchive