Sentic on the ban on the patriarch's entry: Decision-makers should carefully consider the consequences of their actions

Srđan Sentic, the Deputy Ombudsman of Kosovo, expressed serious concerns to Kosovo Online regarding the decision to ban Patriarch Porfirije and seven bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church from entering Kosovo. He explained that such actions are not in accordance with either the spirit or the letter of the Ahtisaari Plan, the Constitution, and laws, and they overlook the importance of the relationship between the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) and its followers.

"Restricting the presence of the SPC not only violates religious freedoms but also denies the right to freedom of religion, which is contrary to the values promoted by the Council of Europe, such as the protection of human rights, religious freedoms, and multiethnic and interethnic coexistence," Sentic stated.

He emphasized that decision-makers should carefully consider the implications of their actions and return to the fundamental principles and values required by European institutional systems, "including respecting religious freedoms, protecting the rights of minority communities, and promoting multiethnic coexistence."

"The Quint Embassies and the European Union Office have highlighted their expectation from the Government, which is to respect the highest standards of human rights and act in the interest of all citizens, supporting fundamental values, including regional stability," Sentic reminded.