Haliti calls for an end to hate speech and extremism in Bujanovac and demands an apology for the Roma community from Alternative for Change councilors

Mensur Haliti, director for democracy and governance at the Open Society Foundation, calls for an immediate end to hate speech and extremism by Alternative for Change councilors, as well as their apology to the Roma community in Serbia. In a news article Bujanovačke, Councilors of Alternative for Change state that "Construction of apartments for Roma from Kosovo is dangerous for Albanians and aims to change the ethnic structure in Bujanovac, as well as that Roma are war criminals and rapists".

First of all, it is important to understand the concerns and fears of all parties. However, hate speech and extremism have no place in our society. The Roma were never criminals or rapists but massively persecuted from Kosovo, as evidenced by the experience of the Roma and the entire international community. These facts cannot be refuted by fabricating lies and replacing theses. The Roma experienced an unimaginable human tragedy on a large scale during the war in Kosovo in 1999 and out of about 150,000, over 100,000 Roma were forced to seek safety and shelter for their families.

The Roma shared a fate with people who were the target of attacks and persecution, and they still are today, although it is ignored. Raped, missing, and murdered Roma are not honored, and no one yet raises questions of moral and political responsibility for real organized crimes committed against Roma. That is why we do not allow anyone to express disrespect towards our victims of crime, and especially to abuse our experience with lies and hatred for the achievement of someone's political goals.

This is another important test for Serbia. Will the state and competent authorities take bold and decisive action to prevent further violence and promote unity and understanding? We call on the state and competent authorities to protect the rights and freedoms of Roma and ensure their safety in Bujanovac. Also, we call on the state to take a firm stand against hate speech and extremism. This includes holding those who engage in hate speech accountable for their goals and providing support to victims of discrimination and violence. It also means working to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies and promoting a culture of respect and inclusiveness in all aspects of society.

We are aware that the current situation in Bujanovac is complex and that the Roma community is caught in the crossfire and dangerous intentions of some extreme right-wingers. However, we as Roma are ready to protect ourselves, but also to work with others to promote a more peaceful and harmonious society and call for an end to the divisions and destructive rhetoric of the extreme right against the Roma.

By promoting dialogue, understanding, and respect for all members of the community, we can build a stronger and more united Serbia for everyone.