The prosecution is acting in cases of hate speech during the celebration of Independence Day

The State Prosecutor’s Office of Montenegro closely monitored all events during the celebration of the national holiday Independence Day, with the aim of preserving public order and peace, protecting citizens, and preventing all forms of hate speech, incitement to violence, and the spread of national and religious intolerance.

During the holiday period, two cases were formed on grounds of suspicion that the criminal offense of inciting national, racial, and religious hatred had been committed.

One case was formed against six minors, while in the second case checks are ongoing regarding suspicion that the same criminal offense was committed.

In relation to all statements and online posts containing elements of hate speech made during the holiday period, investigative actions and information gathering are being conducted by order of the competent state prosecutor’s offices in order to establish all relevant facts and determine possible criminal or misdemeanor liability.

The Supreme State Prosecutor’s Office points out that hate speech, calls for violence, and conduct that incites national, racial, or religious hatred and intolerance represent a serious social problem that may endanger interethnic and interreligious relations, social stability, and the rights of citizens, and that every such form of unlawful conduct will be prosecuted and sanctioned in accordance with the law.

State prosecutor’s offices will continue, in cooperation with other state authorities, to react decisively and without delay in all cases of hate speech, incitement of intolerance, and other forms of conduct endangering peace, security, and harmonious interethnic relations in Montenegro.