At the invitation of the Archdiocese of Belgrade and His Eminence Cardinal Dr. László Német, the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Brankica Janković, gave a lecture to the priests of the Archdiocese of Belgrade on the topic of preventing all forms, types, and instances of discrimination, protecting the equality of natural and legal persons in all areas of social relations, overseeing the implementation of anti-discrimination regulations, and improving the realization and protection of equality.
In the invitation addressed to the Commissioner, it is emphasized that the Archdiocese of Belgrade strives in its mission not only to nurture the spiritual responsibility of its clergy but also to deepen awareness of the importance of social justice, respect for the dignity of every human being, and equality of all people, regardless of their personal, social, religious, or other characteristics. In this context, the aim of the lecture was to contribute to a better understanding of the legal framework and institutional protection, as well as to encourage greater sensitivity among the priests of the Archdiocese of Belgrade toward the needs of individuals exposed to marginalization and discrimination.
Addressing those present, Commissioner Janković emphasized that it was a great pleasure and honor for her to present the work of the institution and cases of discrimination specifically to priests, whose calling, among other things, is to help people and understand their fears and needs, and who are often in a position to speak directly with those who are vulnerable, marginalized, and discriminated against. It is very important that they are informed about the legal framework, institutional protection, and the role and jurisdiction of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality – especially since the prohibition of religious discrimination is an important segment of the Commissioner’s work. Human rights concern all of us, both on an individual and collective level, and everyone can contribute to their promotion, understanding, and the improvement of their realization, Commissioner Janković stressed.