The Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Milan Antonijević, sent a letter to the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet), in which he pointed to the incidents that marked this year’s commemoration of Vidovdan at Gazimestan and expressed concern over allegations of discriminatory treatment against members of the Serbian community.

The address emphasized that Vidovdan represents one of the most significant dates in the religious, historical and cultural identity of the Serbian people, which is why the manner in which it is commemorated is an important indicator of respect for equality, freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly.

The Commissioner pointed out that, according to available information and testimonies, this year’s commemoration was marked by a series of incidents that raise serious concern from the standpoint of equality and non-discrimination, such as selective security checks, the confiscation of flags, the removal of clothing with national and religious symbols, as well as the detention of a larger number of participants, including minors, women and parents with small children. Particular concern was emphasized over information that certain media crews from Serbia were obstructed and intimidated while reporting, while other journalists were allowed to perform their work without obstruction.

The letter stressed the need for all allegations of discriminatory treatment, excessive use of authority, intimidation of journalists, unlawful deprivation of liberty and ill-treatment to be examined urgently, independently and impartially.

The Commissioner called on all competent actors to ensure full respect for the rights of the Serbian community and all other communities in Kosovo and Metohija, to prevent every form of discrimination and to enable religious and cultural commemorations to be held peacefully, safely and with dignity. At the same time, he called on the members of Equinet to continue monitoring the situation in the field of protection of equality, minority rights and the prohibition of discrimination.