OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina supports fight against prejudice and intolerance
SARAJEVO, 19 November 2010 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Gary D. Robbins, today commended the institutions, organizations and citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina who have taken part in events to celebrate the International Day for Tolerance
"Bosnia and Herzegovina is a uniquely diverse country and that diversity should be honored and celebrated," he said. "Although problems persist with prejudices and stereotypes, there are citizens in this country who are standing up to promote tolerance, understanding and respect for religious, ethnic, and cultural differences."
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has dedicated 16 November as the International Day for Tolerance.
The OSCE Mission has for the past 15 years worked in a number of key governance and human rights areas to promote a more open-minded, tolerant, and accepting society. Youth is an especially important component of this work.
"Young people are the future leaders of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Broader and deeper understanding helps to create a safer, richer and more secure country for all," Robbins said.
Over the past two weeks, the Mission has supported several activities to honor the International Day for Tolerance, including open houses at and student visits to religious communities to encourage inter-religious understanding among youth. The Mission also supports workshops, roundtable meetings and friendly competitions for primary and secondary school students from both of the country's entities on the theme of tolerance and diversity.
"The young people of this country are showing that there is nothing to fear from diversity - in fact, there is much to gain from ensuring that all citizens can play a full role in every aspect of life in Bosnia and Herzegovina," Robbins said. "If the country's leaders were to follow their example, they would send a positive and needed signal that Bosnia and Herzegovina truly is looking forward to a better, more peaceful and prosperous future."