View of the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. Serbia: UN human rights chief concerned about restrictions on civil liberties Human rights
The narrowing of civil space in Serbia, accompanied by attacks on critics of the government, as well as restrictions on freedom of the media and expression, is of grave concern. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said this on Thursday.
Reports of increasing violence, voter intimidation and procedural irregularities, including police raids on opposition installations, during recent local elections raise questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the atmosphere in which it took place.
Türk also noted that the country is persecuting journalists and trying to restrict freedom press.
“I call on the authorities to ensure respect for the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and to protect media freedom,” Türk stressed.
He called for transparent and impartial investigations into alleged human rights violations, and for those responsible to be brought to justice, which will restore public trust in institutions authorities.