Medical Chamber: Violence and aggression have no national characteristics...

Violence and aggression do not have a national character, but represent exclusively an individual act that violates the law and security, the Medical Chamber of Montenegro announced today.

"The Medical Chamber of Montenegro strongly emphasizes that violence must never be a response to violence, because such an approach does not bring civilizational progress nor does it contribute to greater security in society. The competent authorities are expected to take all measures to ensure that all those who commit or incite violence are adequately sanctioned. Violence and aggression do not have a national characteristic, but represent exclusively an individual act that violates the law and security. Only through consistent application of the law can the safety of citizens of Montenegro, as well as foreign citizens who live and reside here, and who may be equally exposed to risk from perpetrators of violence," the statement states.

The Medical Chamber added that they express serious concern about the increasing xenophobic messages, discriminatory practices and public targeting of migrants and foreign citizens in Montenegro.

"Such narratives create an atmosphere of distrust, insecurity and social exclusion, which directly undermines mental health and social cohesion. In a democratic society based on the rule of law and respect for human rights, there can be no room for stigmatization and intimidation of people based on their origin. The right to health, dignity and personal security is an inalienable and universal right of every human being. The medical profession does not discriminate between the persons to whom we provide care and protection and does not accept divisions that diminish the value of anyone's life. The Constitution of Montenegro, international documents of the United Nations, standards of the World Health Organization and the European Union clearly oblige institutions and holders of public office to protect and promote these rights," the statement reads.

The Medical Chamber said that collectively labeling certain social groups as threats encourages dehumanization, increases the risk of violence, and seriously undermines mental health and social stability.

"Violence is never a solution. It produces additional fear, insecurity and reduces common well-being. The health system and health workers have a professional and ethical obligation to ensure equal access to health care, legality and humanity in every action. Solidarity, compassion and professional impartiality are the foundation of community safety and health," said the Medical Chamber of Montenegro.

The institution "calls on all public officials, institutions, media and citizens to clearly oppose negative and stigmatizing narratives, not to succumb to disinformation and to refrain from any form of violence."

"Responsibility, thoughtfulness and respect for facts must be the basis of public action, because every word and every decision affects the sense of security of those who live or reside in Montenegro. Hate speech does not represent freedom of speech. It is a threat to the life and health of those to whom it is addressed and represents a direct violation of fundamental human rights. The Medical Chamber of Montenegro remains firmly committed to protecting human dignity, the right to health and safety of every person in Montenegro. The right to life and health is not a privilege but a prerequisite for all other human rights. Equal protection belongs to everyone without exception," the Medical Chamber said.