OSCE promotes interfaith dialogue in Kosovo

A series of five  forums organized by the OSCE Mission in Kosovo for the representatives of the Islamic, Serbian Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish communities to facilitate interfaith dialogue, promote tolerance and freedom of religion and belief, concluded in Mitrovicë/Mitrovica on 19 April 2013.

“The discussions focused on issues that affect many religious communities in Kosovo, including the registration of these communities as legal entities, taxation policies, use of public building and other utilities, as well as religious education and security,” said the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Ambassador Jean Claude-Schlumberger.

“I am encouraged by the high turnout as it is a proof of genuine interest for this initiative and I sincerely hope that the spirit of constructive dialogue and mutual respect that was observed in the discussions will prevail in the future relations between all communities.”

Two more rounds of interfaith forums will take place in June and August and will be concluded with a conference in September bringing together representatives from all regions in Kosovo.

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo promotes a wide range of human rights and freedoms, including the freedom of religion and belief, freedom of expression, and promotes fight against discrimination.