The Lawyers’ Committee for Human Rights and the Belgrade Centre for Human Rights request that that the government of the Republic of Serbia seriously consider the situation in Banja Koviljača, at all levels, so that the rise in racism, xenophobia and intolerance of citizens towards asylum-seekers can be countered. The state is obligated to enact measures to secure the adequate accommodation of asylum-seekers, but also to efficiently investigate all attacks on migrants residing on the territory of Serbia which result in their discrimination. Additionally, we expect that the government enters into dialogue with the citizens of Banja Koviljača, to discuss measures that they intend to take, as well as to actively dedicate themselves to eradicating every form of racism and discrimination. The requests of educational inspectors to normalize schooling may also contribute to the pacification of the situation, but this must be accompanied by prompt and adequate work with teachers so that they too are able to recognise and repress racism and discrimination.
We also appeal to all citizens to refrain from acting against asylum-seekers, because they are in a vulnerable position and find themselves in Serbia because of the troubles they were in at home in their country of origin.
