Raska–Prizren Diocese on painted-over murals: Stop activities that threaten peace and coexistence

The Raska–Prizren Diocese condemned the removal of murals in North Mitrovica, stressing that this act further destabilizes the security situation and interethnic relations, especially in northern Kosovo.

The Diocese emphasized that such provocative and unilateral actions not only fail to contribute to dialogue and peaceful coexistence but also make it more difficult to find ways for all citizens to live together in peace.

“Patriarch Pavle and Metropolitan Amfilohije are among the most highly respected hierarchs of the Serbian Orthodox Church in recent history, who left a deep mark in the memory of our people, especially in Kosovo and Metohija, where they regularly came to provide their help and support in the most difficult times. Moreover, both of them on many occasions called for peace and coexistence, repeating that there is enough room in these areas for the joint life of all people of goodwill,” the Diocese stated in its response.

The Diocese appealed to local Kosovo institutions, particularly in the north, to refrain from provocative activities that further endanger the peace and security of citizens and instead dedicate themselves to building trust rather than causing division on national and religious grounds.

“The Diocese also expects international representatives to raise their voice in connection with this and other provocative incidents, with a clear message that destabilizing peace and stability, while increasing pressure on Kosovo Serbs with the aim of provoking ethnic conflicts and divisions, is not in the interest of all those who seek to preserve peace and respect fundamental democratic values,” it emphasized.

It pointed out that all relevant decisions, especially in Serb-majority municipalities, must be made in full coordination with the local population and not unilaterally and arbitrarily, without consideration of possible consequences.