European Movement
Press Release

19.03.2004.

Press release of the European Movement in Serbia regarding ethnic violence in Kosovo and Metohija

European Movement in Serbia with deep concern perceives undergoing violation of human rights in Kosovo and Metohija whose direct consequence is ethnic cleansing of Serbian enclaves. We appeal to immediate and resolute action of the international security forces in order to end violence in Kosovo and Metohija. It is unacceptable that UNMIK and KFOR are not able to fulfil their mandate and protect citizens under their jurisdiction.

European Movement in Serbia expresses deepest regret for the loss of human lives and escalation of violence that threatens to block all the efforts made until now in the country and the region in respect to democratization, reforms, modernization, improvement of human rights and European integration.

We request from the Government of Serbia and Council of Ministers of the Union of Serbia and Montenegro to urgently intensify diplomatic activities in order to influence key subjects of the international community so that empowered forces of KFOR and UNMIK police can effectively respond to the increasing ethnic violence and bring to an end state of anarchy in Kosovo and Metohija.

We request from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Serbia to, according to the law, provide efficient protection of religious institutions, embassies as well as other objects that were or could be under attack of extremists in Belgrade and other towns in Serbia.

We plead to citizens of Serbia to contain in these difficult times, to express solidarity and cooperation with government institutions and assist in the protection of all our fellow citizens.

European Movement in Serbia will continue to strive for Serbia and Montenegro’s prompt accession to the EU and other Euro Atlantic structures. These processes are the most efficient way to strengthen democratic state of Serbia and way to overcome difficult, inherited problems, including those related to Kosovo and Metohija.