Statements about refugees in BiH must not be discriminatory and stereotypical

SARAJevo, (Patria) - The Coalition for Combating Hate Crimes and Hate Speech appeals to the media and public officials to refrain from incorrect, discriminatory, profiling, and stereotyping statements about refugees in BiH. 

Although the Balkan route has been officially closed, a large number of migrants and refugees are trying to reach Western European countries every day. Compared to last year, and in just the first two months of this year, the number of migrants who have tried to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina has increased sevenfold.

This influx of refugees and migrants represents one of the challenges that officials and representatives of institutions, as well as the media from this region, will have to address in a way that respects the principles of professionalism and ethics. Every statement by officials and representatives of institutions responsible for resolving the current situation must be based on tolerance, non-discrimination, and respect for human rights.

Aware of the importance of freedom of speech in Bosnian society, as one of the foundations for building a free society, we also point out that it must not be misused in a way that creates a hostile environment for refugees and migrants.

Therefore, we appeal to officials, representatives of institutions, and the media to refrain from making incorrect, discriminatory, profiling, and stereotyping statements in their public appearances, which do not contribute to understanding and resolving the current situation regarding the increased influx of refugees into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Intolerant and offensive speech towards categories of people currently in our country, who have the right to protection under international conventions, does not contribute to a humanistic, humane, and solidary approach to the situation.

We remind all officials and representatives of institutions of the responsibility and duty they have undertaken upon taking their positions, emphasizing that human rights and the protection of these persons must be paramount in resolving and responding to the current situation.

We encourage all people of goodwill, activists, and volunteers to stand up for the values of human rights and equality in these challenging times - the appeal states.