Commissioner for the Protection of Equality Brankica Janković on Saturday (August 16), regarding the violence on the streets in Serbia and reports of excessive use of force against minors, journalists and women, as well as the case when a police officer threatened to rape a detained student, she condemned such behavior and called for an end to such behavior.
In the statement, Janković emphasized that this is the last moment to stop such behavior and to return everything to the framework of the Constitution and the law, because otherwise the consequences are unfathomable, stating that no one has the right to question the safety of citizens and the stability of society and the state for the sake of personal interests.
"Conflicts are already on the streets, citizens' trust has been lost, people are taking justice into their own hands because they were not protected by those who are obliged to do so. Unequal treatment of citizens, favoring one over the other creates indignation, anger, tensions, the dramatically severe forms of which we are currently experiencing," emphasized Janković, reports FoNet.
Targeting citizens: Terrorists, fascists, Ustashas...
She added that the main role in resolving the crisis and restoring stability is played by the members of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, among whom there are many who perform their work professionally, and then all state authorities who must treat citizens equally, regardless of gender, membership in political and trade union organizations, age, political or other beliefs.
Janković added that it goes without saying that attacking the police is prohibited, but every threat must be taken seriously and processed without delay. She added that not a single ugly word, let alone hate speech, can be sent by anyone, especially not by public officials who are "most responsible for creating the atmosphere in society and were elected to work in the interest of everyone."
"The same responsibility lies with the media, especially individuals, as well as public officials who target citizens by calling them terrorists, fascists, Ustasha, traitors, blockaders and other inappropriate names. Rhetoric that justifies or relativizes violence and encourages an atmosphere of fear, humiliation and impunity is unacceptable," said Janković.
Source: FoNet
