September 7, 2023
CEL Kosova, CSGD, YIHR KS, KKSGJ and CRD oppose the appointment of Mr. Xhelajdin Krasniqi in the position of Deputy General Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MKRS). Mr. Krasniqi in a statement on the Facebook social network described LGBTI+ persons as extreme degeneracy and called for murder and rape of LGBTI+ individuals. Homophobic comments and attitudes have no place in leadership positions, especially within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports – as the highest state institution competent for cultural issues – where diversity and inclusion should be protected and promoted. Therefore, it is unacceptable for a person with such attitudes to be in a public position where many important cultural decisions for society are made. Such individuals may bring discriminatory perspectives that may negatively impact decision-making processes. To ensure that the cultural policies and decisions of this Ministry are fair, inclusive and respect the rights of all citizens, it is essential to appoint individuals who uphold these values and have a demonstrated commitment to promoting a diverse and inclusive society. cultural wealth. It is disturbing to the Deputy General Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to see such a choice made by the Ministry, as it sends a message that goes against the principles of equality, non-discrimination and inclusiveness that are at the core of a society fair and progressive. This appointment makes one of the most important state institutions inaccessible to LGBTI+ communities. We call on MKRS to revoke this appointment, taking into account Mr. Krasniqi’s previous statements. It is an essential task that our institutions are committed to respect human rights and the principle of non-discrimination and inclusiveness for all citizens, as required by the Constitution and laws in Kosovo. We categorically condemn any form of discrimination, homophobia, transphobia, or hate speech that targets LGBTI+ communities or any other marginalized group. Such rhetoric only serves to spread division, fear and intolerance. We believe deeply in the power of dialogue and activism to challenge prejudice and build bridges of understanding.
