European Commission on events in Serbia: Protests are a value of democracy, they must remain peaceful

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Protests are a value and characteristic of democracy, but they must remain peaceful, the European Commission said today regarding the events over the weekend in Serbia.

"Although the right of citizens to participate in peaceful demonstrations remains an essential characteristic and fundamental value of democracy and must be respected, protests must remain peaceful and in accordance with the law, as was the case before this weekend," said European Commission spokesperson Maja Kocijančič for euractiv.com.

Kocijančič added that calm and restraint are necessary.

"Parliament is the place that should ensure space for debate and discussion in order to find common solutions and responses to public fears. Structured dialogue with civil society is also key," Kocijančič added.