Montenegro: Verbot des Walk of Pride in Niksic

Vor kurzem wurde bekannt, dass die Durchführung des Academic Walk of Pride, einer Demonstration von LGBT-Aktivist*innen an der Philosophischen Fakultät der montenegrinischen Stadt Niksic, untersagt wurde. Terry ist sehr besorgt über diese Situation und hat deshalb einen offenen Brief an Milorad Zizic, dem leitenden Kommissar des Polizeidirektorats von Niksic, geschrieben. Darin fragt sie ihn unter anderem, wie lange das temporäre Verbot der Demonstration gelten soll und was derzeit unternommen wird, um die Ursachen, die zur Entscheidung des Polizeidirektorats führten, zu bekämpfen. Doch lest selbst! Hier gibt es den Brief im Original.

Brussels, 27 April 2015

Prohibition of the Academic walk of Pride in Niksic

Dear Mr Zizic,

As you are certainly aware, the European Parliament closely monitors the respect and implementation of human rights in Montenegro. In this context, we support and encourage all efforts that are undertaken by the authorities of the state of Montenegro to ensure the fundamental rights of all people living in this country.

I have recently gained knowledge of the temporary prohibition of the Academic Walk of Pride in Niksic which was announced to take place on 24 April 2015 on the grounds of the Faculty of Philosophy in Niksic. Taking note of the reasons that led to the decision of prohibiting the Academic Walk of Pride as released on 22 April 2015, I am concerned that this decision may give ample scope for the LGBT community in Montenegro to believe that their rights to freedom of expression and integrity of the person are not adequately protected, thus, that LGBT persons in Montenegro are not treated equally.

Considering that LGBT people in Montenegro are faced with verbal slander and insults on a daily basis and have to envisage threats, assaults and attacks day by day, this decision means a heavy setback for the whole community.

Given that LGBT activists mostly live and operate in isolation and are in perpetual fear of harassment and discrimination, I am afraid that this decision may lead to great disappointment and frustration among the LGBT community and their supporters.

Therefore, I am deeply concerned about this matter and would kindly like to pose two questions that may help clarify the situation:

1. As far as I understand, the prohibition of the Academic Walk of Pride is temporary. Could you please provide me with information on for how long the prohibition will last?

2. What exactly is done at the moment in order to eliminate the causes for the prohibition?

Thank you very much for your attention and please do not hesitate to contact me in case of questions.

Best regards,
Terry Reintke