OSCE Mission supporting efforts to reduce discrimination

SARAJEVO, 23 May 2011 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Ambassador Gary D. Robbins welcomes steps by several governments in Bosnia and Herzegovina to ensure all children receive the same quality of education, and do not suffer from discrimination.

“Freedom from discrimination and freedom of choice is one of the basic human rights. I support all initiatives that help to reduce discrimination in education and support implementation of Bosnia and Herzegovina's legislation, including the Framework Law on Primary and General Secondary Education, as well as the standards of international conventions ratified by Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Robbins.

The Mission looks forward to the consolidation of these initial steps and the introduction of further measures that are in the best interests of all children, from all governing authorities throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The OSCE Mission also wishes to emphasize its support for fruitful dialogue and discussion, and therefore notes the importance of maintaining a constructive public discourse.

The Peace Implementation Council Steering Board at its recent session in March 2011 emphasized that “Reconciliation efforts should include a more forward-looking and integrating approach to education by all the relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”