OSCE Mission to Montenegro Acting Head commends authorities for upholding freedoms of expression and assembly during Pride Parade

PODGORICA, 21 October 2013 – The Acting Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, Waldemar Figaj, praised today the organizers, the government and the police for their successful efforts in upholding the principles of freedom of expression and assembly throughout yesterday’s Pride Parade.

“We highly commend the joint efforts of the organizers and the authorities in planning, providing security arrangements and overseeing the peaceful conduct of the parade,” Figaj said.

“They helped ensure that the rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression were upheld. Many state officials, representatives of political parties, civil society and the international community supported the event and thus also helped to safeguard these values fundamental for any democratic society. We further acknowledge the professional work of the police in ensuring security during the event and protecting all participants and supporters of the Parade.”