OSCE roundtable kicks off debate on minority participation in elections in Montenegro

PODGORICA, 28 March 2003 - An OSCE roundtable today initiated a broad debate on how to ensure more effective participation of minorities in the electoral process in Montenegro. The roundtable was organized in Ulcinj by the OSCE Office in Podgorica and the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) following last year's agreement between the main political forces in Montenegro, facilitated by the ODIHR and other representatives of the international community, to amend the Republic's election law.

"Montenegro already has a good record in changing election legislation in line with international standards and we do hope that this positive trend will continue," said Ambassador Maurizio Massari, Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Montenegro. "While the OSCE stands ready to facilitate the debate and present international norms and best practice, it is crucial that a solution enhancing stability and predictability is found by the citizens of Montenegro and their representatives."

"We encourage a broad discussion leading to a solution that ensures effective involvement of minorities in public affairs and avoiding divisions and exclusions along ethnic lines," said Nikolai Vulchanov, Acting Head of the ODIHR's Election Section.

The roundtable was attended by the Montenegrin Minister in charge of national minorities, Mr. Gzim Hajdinaga, as well as over 40 representatives of political parties and the Albanian, Bosniak, Croat and Roma communities.