Government condemns torching of LGBT flag outside Ombudsman’s Office

The Government most strongly condemns the torching of the flag that symbolises the rights of the LGBT community, which was placed outside the Ombudsman’s Office. We believe that this was an irresponsible act of vandalism by an individual or individuals whose mindset is a prisoner of traditionalist dogmas and unwillingness to accept the right of other people to be different. Such irresponsible acts doubtless cause damage but cannot diminish the importance of everything that is being done in Montenegro towards promoting LGBT rights and human rights on the whole.

We will continue, in the process of EU integration, to work continuously and diligently towards improving human rights protection and adopting standards in all areas. The Government of Montenegro is fully aware of all commitments and responsibilities in that sense and it is unreservedly devoted to them.

Incidents such as this one certainly do not represent the majority view or the Government’s position as regards the LGBT persons. According to all relevant sources, Montenegro has an active dialogue on all matters and openly fights the myths and stereotypes about LGBT persons in order to put a stop to discrimination.

We expect the competent authorities to uncover in the shortest time possible the circumstances under which this incident took place and the perpetrators.

Dr Jovan Kojičić
Adviser to the Prime Minister on human rights and protection from discrimination