Reaction

Not raising a procedure for the death of Bekjarov is an act of discrimination

 

The Roma humanitarian association “Mesecina” from Gostivar and the Association for Roma Democratic Development “Sonce” from Tetovo, reacted to the decision of the public prosecution not to press any charges against the police unit “Alfi” a year after the death of the young Trajan Bekjarov. According to these organizations, with this act, the Public Prosecution expresses its discriminatory attitude towards the Romas, especially in times when the reforms in the police and the judiciary for establishing a system that efficiently protects human rights and freedoms are taking place. The case becomes even more serious since it concerns a child, and according to the Children Rights Convention, no child can be exposed to torture, punishment or cruel behavior.

For “Mesecina” and “Sonce”, the lack of interest for clearing up the Bekjirov case is a clear sign of discrimination on national and class grounds, and it leaves space for further unpunished violence by the police, especially when it comes to Romas. The child family announced to press private charges and conduct an investigation on the case. There are also other cases in which Romas were victims, which have not been cleared up yet.

Several international organizations are already familiar with the case of Bekjarov’s death, they inform at “Mesecina”. Roma NGOs, in cooperation with MCMS attended the United Nations Conference, Working Group on Minorities in Geneva, where they informed the Human Rights Commissioner, Tomas Homerberg on the case.

 

S. N.