The non-governmental organization (NGO) Prima strongly condemned the attack by foreign nationals on a young man from Podgorica, who was injured on the occasion, but also clearly emphasized that this incident does not justify the treatment currently being experienced by all Turkish citizens in Montenegro, nor the violence and hate speech directed towards them.
This is the action of individuals, not all migrants in Montenegro, according to a press release signed by the executive director of the NGO, Aida Perović.
"In addition, we call on all citizens, media and social actors not to abuse the fight against sexual and gender-based violence against women in Montenegro to spread hatred and discrimination based on national or religious affiliation. Such behavior is unacceptable and harmful to society as a whole and belittles the experience of girls, young women and women who have experienced sexual and/or gender-based violence at the hands of Montenegrin citizens," the statement reads.
The NGO Prima appealed to the competent institutions to take responsibility and ensure equal treatment before the judicial and criminal systems of Montenegro for all persons, regardless of their national or religious affiliation.
"Only through a responsible response from institutions, active condemnation of violence and fostering mutual respect can we preserve a safe and just society for all. Citizens should not passively observe events, nor should they turn justice into the law of the street. Their role is to actively and civilly encourage and warn institutions to do their job properly according to the law and without discrimination on any grounds. NGO Prima places all its capacities, material and expert, at the disposal of institutions, citizens in order to combat hate speech and for the democratization of Montenegrin society," the statement concludes.
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