The Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Brankica Janković, met with the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe, Dunja Mijatović, with whom she discussed the necessity of improving the respect and protection of human rights, as well as mechanisms for reducing their violation, especially in light of global challenges and events.

Janković pointed out that institutions for the protection of equality in Serbia and the region have a specific position and a significant role in strengthening human rights, the rule of law and further developing a democratic and tolerant society. She emphasized that, in this sense, it is necessary to intensify existing cooperation and strengthen joint initiatives to develop better regional relations and stability. Janković stated that cooperation with state authorities, civil society organizations, international partners, and the media is important in this process.

The meeting discussed the priorities in the work of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality for the upcoming period, and the Commissioner stated that in the coming period, work will be done on the topic of the development of artificial intelligence and its impact on discrimination, as well as on improving the position of Roma, the elderly and women, LGBTI+ and other social groups at greater risk of discrimination.

Mijatović welcomed the work of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality and pointed out how important it is to hear and respect the voice of an independent institution for the protection of human rights. The two Commissioners agreed that in the time of strengthening extremism on all sides, protecting all citizens’ human rights is even more important.