LGBTIQ+ people in Montenegro continue to live under the pressure of fear, silence and systemic injustice, said the Center for Civic Education (CCE).
In anticipation of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), which is celebrated on May 17th, the NGO reminded that violence is becoming more frequent in public spaces, especially on social networks, where hate speech goes unpunished.
"Physical attacks, threats and harassment of LGBTIQ+ people often go unprosecuted or end up with symbolic and ineffective punishments. This sends the message that violence against LGBTIQ+ people is socially acceptable," the statement said.
Development Coordinator at CCE Miloš Knežević said that behind the legally regulated and colorful "facade" lies a harsh reality in which the rights of LGBTIQ+ people are systematically neglected.
"The Criminal Code of Montenegro provides for penalties for hate speech, but these provisions are rarely applied. The Law on the Prohibition of Discrimination prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, but institutions are passive and sanctions are absent," said Knežević.
As he stated, such a practice discourages LGBTIQ+ people from reporting violence, while directly encouraging perpetrators to continue spreading hatred.
Knežević said that the Law on Same-Sex Life Partnerships, which entered into force in 2021, has not been harmonized with the legislative framework to date.
"The government did not initiate, and the Parliament adopted, a set of laws and bylaws, which blocked their implementation," added Knežević.
As he said, the necessary changes have not been implemented in all 27 laws and 14 by-laws, so LGBTIQ+ people do not have the opportunity to enjoy the full range of rights that this law guarantees them.
"The draft Law on Legal Recognition of Gender Identity Based on Self-Determination is far from parliamentary procedure, and by ignoring this issue, the ruling political structures are sending a message that the standards and criteria of equality in Montenegro are set in such a way that LGBTIQ+ persons remain invisible, disenfranchised and institutionally ignored," said Knežević.
He stated that all of this highlights the lack of political and institutional will to improve existing laws, enact new ones, and consistently implement them all.
"The position of LGBTIQ+ children and youth is of particular concern, as they most often suffer violence where they should be safest - in their families," said Knežević.
He pointed out that rejection, emotional and physical abuse, pressure to live a lie, and institutional silence are everyday things that are still being talked about.
"Growing up in this environment has far-reaching consequences – on mental health, educational success, employment and social inclusion. Instead of developing their talents and contributing to the community, young LGBTIQ+ people are marginalized and condemned to social isolation," said Knežević.
He stated that the theme of this year's International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is the power of communities.
"Unfortunately, the LGBTIQ+ community in Montenegro is still in the survival phase instead of living. While institutions refuse to recognize violence as a systemic problem, while prosecutors protect perpetrators and schools remain silent, and political actors distance themselves - the community is increasingly vulnerable, increasingly silent, increasingly exhausted," said Knežević.
He concluded that it is therefore very important, today and every other day, to insist on the dedicated application of the law, because without it there is no justice, and the power of the community is based on the responsibility of institutions.
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