On the occasion of the upcoming local elections to be held on March 29, 2026, in the City of Bor and the municipalities of Aranđelovac, Bajina Bašta, Kula, Knjaževac, Kladovo, Majdanpek, Lučani, Smederevska Palanka, and the City Municipality of Sevojno, the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Milan Antonijević, calls on all participants in the electoral process to conduct the campaign in accordance with the Constitution and the law, with respect for the dignity of all citizens.

The Commissioner recalls that the Law on the Prohibition of Discrimination prohibits hate speech, as well as offensive, degrading, and harassing conduct toward any individual or group based on their personal characteristics. Therefore, it is particularly important that political actors, public figures, as well as all those participating in public communication during the election campaign, pay attention to the tone and content of their statements, both in the public sphere and on social media.

The pre-election period often brings increased political dynamics and differing opinions, but reasoned debate, exchange of views, and criticism based on facts represent a legitimate and desirable part of the democratic process. On the other hand, the spread of prejudice, labeling, disparagement, and discriminatory rhetoric cannot be considered an acceptable form of political contest and may have harmful consequences for society.

The Commissioner particularly points out that any misuse of children, vulnerable and marginalized groups, and members of national minorities for political purposes is unacceptable, as well as the use of content that incites intolerance, hatred, violence, and discrimination or deepens divisions in society.

Bearing in mind that elections represent one of the most important democratic processes, the responsibility of all participants is to contribute to an atmosphere in which citizens can make decisions freely and without pressure. Respect for the law, institutions, and the fundamental principles of equality is of key importance for preserving democratic values and trust in the electoral process.

The Commissioner recalls that life in local communities continues after election day and calls on all political actors to contribute through their conduct to the preservation of mutual respect, tolerance, and social dialogue.