American Creates Bosnia Mini-Museum at His US Home

On display at Mathieu's home in Wisconsin are various items from Bosnia, most of them souvenirs from the 1984 Winter Olympics, but also memorabilia from the 1990s war years such as flags and badges.

"The idea for a museum or some kind of display emerged over the years as I accumulated artefacts. When I would visit Bosnia I would bring back lots of items," he told BIRN.

Some of the items on display come from an unusual source - the actor Christopher Lee, best known for playing Dracula, who collected insignia from the war. When Lee died, Mathieu bought a large part of his collection.

Mathieu, a journalist who also works with the Institute for Research of Genocide in Canada and has visited Bosnia six times so far, said that the display at his home also sends a message.

"I really want to stress Bosnia's multi-ethnic characteristics and history. Bosnia is only Bosnia if it is a land for all people and cultures that are a part of its social fabric," he said.

He recalled how he found the outbreak of the 1992-95 war very disturbing, and how it inspired him to try to help.

"Once I was able to understand what was happening, I was appalled and felt compelled to do something about it. I worked on various projects relating to ending the war, providing medical supplies, school supplies, et cetera," he said.

Asked to explain what he likes most about Bosnia, Mathieu said that it was the people, who he believes would work together towards a better future if it wasn't for the divisive politics foisted upon them.

"I made a lot of connections to Bosnians, I love the sense of humour. The war and history can be a mixed blessing - the people of Bosnia have a better understanding of what is important in life: experiences, friendships,...