In a recent case in Montenegro, a Kosovo citizen was sentenced to 10 days in prison for writing the graffiti “APRZ UÇK 1878.” Along with the prison sentence, authorities imposed a one-year ban on the individual from Montenegrin territory. While the case has sparked reactions, it also raises critical questions about fairness, equality, and the selective enforcement of the law in the country.
 |
| Anti-Kosovo banners and graffiti in Montenegro |
Only a few political figures have publicly reacted to the arrest of the Kosovo citizen, among them Mehmet Zenka of the Albanian Democratic Party (UDSh). Zenka condemned the decision and highlighted the unfairness in Montenegro’s legal system, stating:
"If we were to examine all graffiti that insult the feelings of other ethnic groups across Montenegro — including those glorifying figures like Ratko Mladić and Radovan Karadžić — many cases should have been prosecuted criminally."
Zenka’s statement underscores the perception that Montenegrin institutions enforce the law selectively. According to him, all expressions of hate and glorification of crimes should be treated equally, regardless of the perpetrator's national or ethnic background.
The case also stirred debate about the appropriateness of the graffiti itself. Zenka acknowledged that writing UÇK (Kosovo Liberation Army) graffiti in cities like Herceg Novi might be viewed as provocative due to the local ethnic composition. Yet, he emphasized that the UÇK represents one of the most significant symbols of Albanian history and pride.
The wider implications of this case go beyond the individual arrest. They point to a systemic issue in Montenegro, where double standards in law enforcement seem to persist. While anti-Albanian or anti-Bosniak graffiti frequently go unpunished, any expression associated with Albanian national identity can result in legal action, fines, or imprisonment. This selective approach not only undermines trust in state institutions but also contributes to ethnic tension and social polarization.
Experts argue that addressing hate speech and provocative graffiti in Montenegro requires a uniform and unbiased approach. Authorities must ensure that laws apply equally to all groups, preventing discrimination and upholding the principle of equality before the law. Without such reforms, incidents like the arrest of the Kosovo citizen will continue to highlight disparities and deepen interethnic divisions.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with many pointing out the irony of the situation. While citizens of Kosovo are penalized for expressing national pride through graffiti, similar expressions from nationalist Montenegrin or Serbian groups often face no consequences. This discrepancy feeds into broader discussions about minority rights, freedom of expression, and ethnic equality in the Balkans.
In conclusion, the recent arrest in Montenegro exposes a clear imbalance in legal enforcement. While the law penalized a Kosovo citizen for UÇK graffiti, anti-Albanian and anti-Bosniak expressions remain largely unchecked. Calls from political figures like Mehmet Zenka stress the need for consistent application of the law, equal protection for all communities, and the elimination of double standards that compromise both justice and social cohesion.
The case serves as a reminder that promoting equality and fairness in law enforcement is not just a legal necessity but also a crucial factor in maintaining peace and mutual respect among Montenegro’s diverse ethnic communities.