Founded in Sarajevo in 2017, the War Childhood Museum is dedicated entirely to the experiences of children affected by war. Its collection features personal items donated by individuals from around the world, each telling a unique story of childhood interrupted. From toys and drawings to letters and diaries, these objects speak volumes about loss, survival, and the power of memory. What makes this museum truly remarkable is its mission: to preserve the voices of those who grew up in war, and to educate future generations through empathy rather than spectacle. The museum has earned international acclaim, including the Council of Europe Museum Prize, and continues to grow as it gathers stories from conflict zones across the globe. We are, unfortunately, used to seeing war on our screen: images of destruction, loss, and displacement that barely register anymore. Over time, it’s easy to stop feeling. The War Childhood Museum cuts through that. It puts real stories and real lives in front of us, reminding us that war doesn’t just happen somewhere else to someone else. It could be me. My child. My grandchild. This museum isn’t just about the past—it’s a reminder of our shared humanity, and of the cost of looking away.
Our member Idil Elveris interviewed Jasminko Halilović, founder of the War Childhood Museum, released in a powerful podcast episode. Tune in and listen to the full story here! | 
