OSCE Mission condemns violence in Skopje, calls for calm

SKOPJE, 9 March 2012 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Ralf Breth, condemned today recent violent incidents in Skopje and conveyed his sympathies to those who were injured and their families.

"I trust that the authorities will fully investigate these incidents and the perpetrators will be quickly apprehended and brought to justice. Violence can never be condoned, especially in a sensitive multiethnic environment," Breth said.

"I appeal to families, school directors and teachers to exert vigilance over their children and students to prevent them from engaging in violence. I also call on all stakeholders, especially political parties, civil society, and local authorities, to strongly condemn these acts of violence from whichever side they come, act responsibly and avoid increasing tensions. Responsible media reporting would also help to calm the situation.

"I call on all citizens not to take justice in their own hands. Acts of revenge and retaliation can only worsen the situation in the country."

Background:

On the evening of 7 March, a group of assailants attacked passengers on a Skopje city bus, injuring them. This attack was followed by several other violent incidents in the following days. There are reports that the motives behind these incidents may be of an inter-ethnic nature.