UNMIK: Efforts to combat hate speech must not undermine freedom of expression or the right to identity

Regarding the Kosovo Police operation and the arrest of Serbs at Gazimestan during the Vidovdan commemoration, UNMIK told Kosovo Online that it had been monitoring the situation, stressing that all public gatherings should take place peacefully, with respect for diversity, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, while emphasizing that efforts to combat hate speech must not undermine freedom of expression or the right to identity.

“We are aware of the events that took place yesterday at Gazimestan during the Vidovdan commemoration. We have been closely monitoring the situation and emphasize the importance of ensuring that all public gatherings are conducted peacefully, with respect for diversity, fundamental freedoms and the applicable laws,” UNMIK said in a response to Kosovo Online.

The UN Mission in Kosovo added that it supports efforts to combat all forms of hate speech and incitement.

“At the same time, we recall that such efforts should not undermine freedom of expression and the right to identity, including the use of signs and symbols,” the response added.

Earlier today, EULEX told Kosovo Online that it had monitored, and continues to monitor, the activities undertaken by the Kosovo authorities in connection with yesterday’s Vidovdan commemoration.

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo also told our portal that it had monitored developments during the Vidovdan observance through its regular monitoring activities and engagement with partners and institutions.

The U.S. Embassy in Pristina, commenting on the Kosovo Police operation during the Vidovdan commemoration at Gazimestan, called on both citizens and institutions to respect Kosovo’s laws and Constitution.

Following the memorial service at Gazimestan yesterday, the Kosovo Police detained several dozen people who had attended the Vidovdan commemoration, including one minor.

A hearing is currently underway before the Basic Court in Pristina, while misdemeanor proceedings have been initiated against the arrested Serbs.

Meanwhile, Kosovo Deputy Ombudsperson Srđan Sentic told Kosovo Online that he had initiated an ex officio investigation into yesterday’s detention of several dozen people at Gazimestan and that requests for information had been sent to the competent institutions in order to establish all relevant facts and circumstances.