OSCE Kosovo mission condemns desecration of Orthodox graves
PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 15 January 2013 – The OSCE Mission in Kosovo acting head Paivi Nikander today condemned the desecration of several dozen tombstones at the Orthodox graveyard in Fushë Kosove/Kosovo Polje town.
“I strongly condemn the desecration of the Orthodox graveyard in Fushë Kosovo/Kosovo Polje town,” said Nikander. “It is a despicable act that is disrespectful to the deceased and the community to which they belong. I call on all relevant institutions to immediately repair the damaged tombstones and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
“I am pleased to hear that the Municipal Communities Safety Council will meet tomorrow to discuss this incident and I hope that action to remedy the situation will be taken quickly. I also welcome the condemnation issued by the town’s Mayor,” added Nikander.
An OSCE Mission report from September 2011 on the condition of Orthodox graveyards in Kosovo indicated that the graveyard in Fushë Kosovo/Kosovo Polje town was in poor condition. Following the report the local government started to regularly clean all the graveyards and refurbish some of the accompanying graveyard facilities.
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with human rights protection and promotion, democratization and public safety sector development. The OSCE’s report and a photo catalogue of the Orthodox graveyards can be accessed at //www.osce.org/kosovo/84453