In a cordial and open conversation with Ambassador Braathu, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Muamer Zukorlic presented a cross-section of certain issues important for the Bosniak national community in Serbia.
Noting the progress made in developing the legislative framework in the past, attention was drawn to the importance of implementing the adopted rights and institutes concerning national communities. In that context, he drew attention to the problems of selective implementation of legal provisions manifested in the work of the Bosniak National Council (BNV) after the 2010 elections for national councils, which in a certain form continue to this day. Deputy Speaker Zukorlic also spoke about education in terms of teaching and textbooks in the Bosnian language and their quality. In particular, with regard to the Public Service, he pointed out the lack of programs and news in the Bosnian language.
Speaking of religious rights, it was assessed that this is a problem in continuity - while the state supports the unity of some, the disintegration of the Islamic Community in Serbia is tolerated. There is a lack of appropriate efforts to restore the unity of the Islamic Community, the situation is out of control, which can potentially create security, educational, ideological and other problems. Also, there is a lack of a balanced relationship in the financing of religious communities and the demands of the Islamic Community are approached restrictively.
As especially important, Deputy Speaker Zukorlic raised the issue of employment of Bosniaks within state structures, especially in the police, prosecutor's offices and courts. What gives a positive tone to the position of Bosniaks is their significant presence in the Serbian Assembly (nine MPs), as well as their visibility in everyday parliamentary life, Zukorlic stated.
For his part, Ambassador Braathu expressed special interest in the position of the Bosniak community in Serbia. He stressed that the OSCE pays attention to the participation of Bosniaks in the work of relevant institutions, as well as the work of the media, opining that there are some positive developments in these areas. He pointed to the solid structure of the Bosniak National Council, adding that more could be achieved by heightened engagement. Speaking of education, he also drew attention to the important role the Bosniak MPs in the National Assembly play in advocating for a more adequate implementation of school programs in the Bosnian language.
The meeting was also attended by Sarah Groen, Deputy Head of Mission, and Giovanni Gabassi, Chief of the Cabinet of Ambassador Braathu.
