The OSCE Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina expresses concern over recent reports of measures taken by the local police in recent days against members of the “Student List – Students Win” from Serbia during activities related to the campaign, in several cities across Bosnia and Herzegovina, which appear to have limited the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly of Student List participants, the OSCE Mission in BiH announced.
The mission will continue to carefully monitor the further development of the situation, it was also stated in the statement.
The OSCE reminds that freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights. As determined by the obligations undertaken within the framework of the OSCE and international human rights standards, the competent authorities should, wherever possible, enable and protect peaceful gatherings, while potential issues of security or public order should be resolved with measures that are proportionate to the identified risks, represent the least restrictive means available and are necessary in a democratic society.
The right to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression belongs to all persons under the jurisdiction of the state, regardless of their nationality or citizenship.
The mission calls on all competent authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to respect and apply the stated obligations and standards when it comes to peaceful gatherings. All measures taken in this context must remain proportionate and justified in a democratic society.
All allegations of possible attacks on people who organize or participate in peaceful gatherings must be investigated without delay and the perpetrators held accountable, the OSCE announced.
