OSCE Mission to Skopje calls for calm and prudence

SKOPJE, 21 May 2014 – The OSCE Mission to Skopje shares the grief over the recent tragic loss of a young man’s life in Gjorce Petrov which was followed by two nights of rioting. “We are monitoring these developments with increasing concerns”, said the Head of Mission, Ambassador Ralf Breth. “We understand the authorities are investigating this crime, therefore it is crucial to let the investigative and judicial process take its course.”

Solidarity with the family of the victim should prevail over violent protests and the regrettable damage to property, stressed Ambassador Breth. “In the recent past the citizens of this country have demonstrated their ability to come together in times of suffering. We appeal to everyone to live up to these values. There should be no collective responsibility by any community for the acts of one individual.”