OSCE: HATE-MOTIVATED INCIDENTS MUST BE ADDRESSED URGENTLY

SARAJEVO, MAY 18 /SRNA/ – The OSCE mission condemned the act of vandalism targeting two business facilities of companies from Serbia in downtown Sarajevo and called on the competent authorities to prosecute those responsible, stressing that all hate-motivated incidents must be unequivocally condemned and addressed urgently and consistently.

"The use of symbols and messages of hate in public spaces is unacceptable, especially near memorial sites," the OSCE Mission told SRNA regarding the graffiti sprayed on the premises of Serbian companies last week in Sarajevo city cente, marking every shop under their ownership. The OSCE stressed that acts directed against individuals, companies, or groups on the basis of their national or ethnic affiliation not only harm those directly affected, but also send a broader message of intimidation, undermine mutual respect, and damage social cohesion and public security. On Friday, May 15, graffiti and red paint appeared on the premises of Serbian companies in downtown Sarajevo, marking every business under their ownership. The Sarajevo Canton Ministry of Interior told SRNA that this act of vandalism had been classified as the criminal offense of inciting national, racial, and religious hatred, discord, or intolerance.