15. 03. 2013

OSCE MISSION CALL ON RESPECT AND CIVILITY IN DEMOCRATIC DISCUSSION

Belgrade, March 15, 2013 (OSCE Serbia) - Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, the Ambassador Peter Burkhard, called today on respect and civility in public dialogue, after the incident at the public discussion on the Draft Law on Public Information, organized by the Ministry of Culture with the support of OSCE Mission.

The discussion, held yesterday in Nis, was disrupted by verbal and physical threats made to the officials of the Ministry and the OSCE representatives.

"I regret this public forum has been upset. There is no place for threats and violence in a democratic debate", Burkhard said.

OSCE Mission to Serbia has supported the organization of the discussion on the Draft Law on Public Information, with the aim to provide relevant information to the public and enable citizen's participation in the legislative process.

"Truthful and objective informing of citizens is the essence of media reforms. I hope we would be able to continue this important discussion on the law on public information in the atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance, in which all sides may express their opinion, ask questions and propose solutions", the Ambassador said.

Burkhard added that the Mission would continue to work jointly with the Government of Serbia, media, public and civil society on ensuring the transparency of the legislative process and public debate in the democratic reforms in Serbia.