Milan Antonijevic (BETAPHOTO/MILAN OBRADOVIC)
Milan Antonijevic, Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, said in a letter to Equinet, the European Network of Equality Bodies, that he is concerned by reports of discrimination against members of the Serb community during a St. Vitus Day celebration in Gazimestan.
The Commissioner said that according to available information and eyewitness accounts, this year's celebration was marred by a series of incidents which give rise to concerns with regard to equality.
He said that selective security checks, the confiscation of flags, removal of clothing with national and religious symbols, as well as the arrest of a sizable number of participants, including minors, women and parents with children, are reasons for concern.
He also said that he is especially worried about information that some media crews from Serbia were obstructed and intimidated while reporting while other journalists were allowed to do their job without any interference.
In the letter he calls for an urgent, independent and unbiased probe of reports of discrimination, the overstepping of authorities, intimidation of reporters, illegal arrests and abuses.
Ombudsman Zoran Pasalic sent a letter to 106 international institutions and human rights organizations in which he acquaints them with the events that happened in Gazimestan on June 28.
The letter was prompted by reports and proof sent to the Ombudsman from individuals who attended the marking of St. Vitus Day of being subjected to torture, insults, harassement and exposed to other unbecoming behavior, Pasalic said.
To get full access to all content of interest see our
Subscription offer
Or
Register for free
And read up to 5 articles each month.
Already have an account? Please Log in.