Dačić meets UN Special Rapporteur of the UN Human Rights Council

During the conversation, Minister Dačić emphasised that the Republic of Serbia was fully committed to the application of all international and regional standards which regulate the promotion of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and that the Government of Serbia was investing considerable efforts in that field, which was of particular importance in the context of progress on the path of European integration. He also noted that great attention was paid to the issue of safety of media workers, which was illustrated by the existence of special Government bodies handling these issues.

Special Rapporteur Khan expressed her gratitude for Serbia’s openness for cooperation, and thanked all competent authorities which had agreed to meet her during her visit for the purpose of collection of data on the regulatory framework and the application of regulations which guarantee freedom and pluralism of the media, Internet freedom and the right to expression to all social groups, especially minorities.

She stressed that she was an independent expert recruited by UN Member States, and that the essence of her mandate was providing support and assistance for the purpose of implementation of existing regulations in this field with a view to building democratic societies.

Minister Dačić said that Serbia would continue to actively work on strengthening the national protection, monitoring and reporting system with respect to the endangered rights, protection and safety of journalists, and to take part in and support initiatives, coalitions and partnerships in international bodies competent for these matters.