The Federal Republic of Yugoslavia consists of Serbia and Montenegro, two parts of pre-1991 Yugoslavia.

The former Yugoslavia was under communist rule for 45 years. When this regime fell down in the late ‘80s old ethnic troubles and conflicts began to surface again. Bit by bit parts of Yugoslavia broke away to form the independent states of Slovenia, Croatia who were later followed by Bosnia and Macedonia.

The Serbs have always been the powerful majority in Yugoslavia and opposed what was happening – fighting against Bosnia and Croatia. At that time President Milosevic stirred up Serbian nationalism and has been condemned for supporting“ethnic cleansing”, where Serbian forces slaughtered Albanians in the region of Kosovo. NATO forces got involved, forcing Serbian troops to withdraw and setting up a temporary government to manage Kosovo. Although technically still a part of Serbia, it seems unlikely that the Kosovans will accept this compromise.

The future of the whole Balkan area remains a dangerous flashpoint - the future of Montenegro, Bosnia, Kosovo and Macedonia hangs in the balance.

Pray for all local and international leaders involved in finding a peaceful resolution for Yugoslavia

Pray for genuine forgiveness between ethnic groups that have been at war for so long. Pray that people would be able to rebuild trust and cooperation.

Religious hatred often goes hand in hand with all the ethnic divisions. Pray that Christians would be examples in their love, forgiveness and friendships with all people.

10,000 Albanians were killed during the Kosovan war that turned 80% of the population into refugees. During this difficult time many Muslim Albanians were cared for by Christian agencies and started to find out about Jesus. Many became Christians. Pray for them to have grace and wisdom during this difficult time.