Creating an environment where diversity is respected, and intolerance is recognised and addressed in time
“There is no place for racial discrimination or racism of any kind in democratic societies. We must all strive to ensure that our societies combat racism. Racism is not perpetrated only by individuals; it also exists at a structural level. That is why we must act at all levels of governance,” said Liselot Isakson, Deputy Head of the Cooperation Section at the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, at the event “Combating Racism and Hate Speech in Montenegro: Intersectoral Dialogue on Aligning with European Standards”, organised by the Council of Europe.
She stressed that, although Montenegro has made progress in promoting equality and diversity, structural barriers continue to hinder the full participation and advancement of marginalised groups, particularly ethnic minorities such as the Roma, in various areas of society.
According to her, combating hate speech and discrimination is also a key element of Montenegro’s EU accession process.
“Under Chapter 23, which covers the judiciary, fundamental rights and the fight against corruption, Montenegro is required to ensure an effective institutional response to hate speech, protect vulnerable groups and ensure respect for fundamental rights in practice, not merely on paper.”
“The fight against racism and hate speech must be based on the principle of equality, respect for human dignity and the full protection of the rights of every individual, regardless of their national, ethnic, religious or other affiliation,” said Protector of Human Rights and Freedoms, Siniša Bjeković.
He pointed out that hate speech must not be normalised or regarded as a routine part of the public sphere, particularly given the speed and scale at which it can spread through digital platforms.
The event focused on findings from a comparative analysis of policies to combat racism and hate speech, as well as opportunities to strengthen the institutional response and further align with European standards.
Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of prevention, education and raising awareness of the harmful effects of discrimination and hate speech. “A society based on equality is not built solely by responding to violations of rights once they have occurred, but also by creating an environment in which diversity is respected, dialogue is encouraged, and intolerance is recognised and addressed in time,” said Protector Bjeković.
National ECRI GPR 7 trainers Nerma Dobardžić and Milena Krsmanović Iković presented the content and significance of an online course dedicated to combating racism and discrimination. The course draws particularly on ECRI General Policy Recommendation No. 7 and the European Union Action Plan against Racism. Its practical component examines cases before the European Court of Human Rights, and the course will be available in Montenegrin and adapted to the national context.