OSCE Mission to Serbia Head calls for respect, civility in democratic debate

BELGRADE, 15 March 2013 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Peter Burkhard, today called for respect and civility in public dialogue after a debate organized with the assistance of the OSCE Mission was disrupted.

The debate on the draft law on public information, organized yesterday afternoon in Niš by the Ministry of Culture and Information with OSCE Mission assistance, was disrupted by threatening speech and actions, which were also directed at Ministry officials and OSCE representatives, from members of the audience. 

“I regret that this public forum was disrupted – threats and violence have no place in democratic debate,” said the Head of the Mission, Ambassador Peter Burkhard.

“The OSCE Mission to Serbia helped organize this debate on the draft law on public information to inform the public and facilitate its participation in the legislative process. The need for citizens to have accurate information is in fact at the heart of media reforms.”

“I hope that we will be able to continue this important discussion on media reform in an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance, with all sides able to present their views, ask questions and propose solutions.”

Burkhard added that the Mission would continue to work with the Serbian government, public, media and civil society to foster transparent processes and democratic debate as Serbia proceeds with democratic reforms.