Commissioner for Protection Equality Brankica Jankovic condemned as a very rude and inappropriate statement of the Minister of Defense Bratislav Gasic addressed to TV B92 journalist, while he was answering journalists’ questions in Trstenik.

That kind of language is unacceptable and insulting not only for journalists but for all women.  The Commissioner stressed that all the representatives of the Serbian authorities, as public officials have an additional obligation to fight gender stereotypes and to treat women in Serbian society equally with respect and without discriminatory attitudes.

The Commissioner points out that it was good that the minister promptly apologized, and this whole incident should be a reminder to all those in authority to behave decently and with full respect of the interlocutor in their communication.

Commissioner Jankovic notes that stereotypes and prejudice against women must be thoroughly and consistently combated in order to achieve equal, democratic and tolerant society. She reminded that Serbia marks 16 days of activism from November 25, International Day Against Violence Against Women, and lasts until 10 December, International Human Rights Day, and that is why the messages and statements provided to the public have the extra weight.