CoE commissioner writes to PM, concerned over ombudsman

CoE commissioner writes to PM, concerned over ombudsman

"Public verbal attacks by some members of the government following the ombudsman’s call for the de-institutionalisation of persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities were also brought to my attention."

The open letter, published on the Council of Europe website and dated May 18, also stated that Muznieks "noted reports that on May 6 the ombudsman and his advisers were prevented by the minister of defense from completing their in situ inspection of the Military Security Service, which was being carried out within the framework of the ombudsman’s mandate."

"In view of the above, I urge you and your government to take all necessary measures to fully safeguard the Serbian ombudsman’s integrity and that of his office. Serbia and your government cannot but benefit from protecting and promoting this national institution that has acquired an international reputation for the quality of its work," the CoE official wrote.

"I will continue to monitor the developments closely and spare no effort, in accordance with my mandate, in order to facilitate the activities of your national ombudsman and to enhance its independence and effectiveness," Muznieks concluded, adding that he was "looking forward to receiving Vucic's reply and continuing a constructive dialogue."

In his reply dated May 29, Vucic stressed that "on the occasion of our conversation during your visit in March you underlined that work of independent regulatory bodies, such as ombudsman and commissioner for information of public importance was precisely the area in which the government of Serbia had done a good job and which was respected by the international community."

The letter, also published on the CoE website, added that Vucic "believes that one can always do more and better, and as prime minister of Serbia will do his best to improve the situation in the field of human rights and vulnerable groups' protection."

"Your letter was written three days after I met Sasa Jankovic at the government building. We agreed then to have meetings on regular basis, as well as on the necessity to improve respect for the citizens' rights and legality and regularity of work of authorities. We agreed the need for better cooperation between public authorities and independent control bodies in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Serbia and in the best interest of the citizens."

Muznieks was on a working visit to Serbia in March when he pointed out to the need to improve the human rights situation of the socially vulnerable groups, including LGBT population, Roma, children, and women. The commissioner also pointed out the need to resocialize persons with special needs.

Based on this visit, the CoE official has announced a report on human rights in Serbia that will be presented in the coming period.