As part of the Eastern Neighbours Film Festival programme, De Balie will screen the documentary Peacemaker by Croatian filmmaker Ivan Ramljak. The film tells the story of Josip Reihl Kir, chief of police in Osijek, who sought to prevent the outbreak of the Yugoslav wars through dialogue and negotiation but was assassinated in 1991.

Drawing on archival footage and witness accounts, the documentary reconstructs the final months of his life and examines the unresolved questions surrounding his death.

Beyond its historical focus, Peacemaker raises broader questions about the role of pacifists, mediators and political leaders in times of escalating conflict and social polarisation. Following the screening, a discussion will explore the possibilities and limits of peacebuilding efforts when societies become deeply divided and violence appears imminent.