The language recently used by public figures holding institutional positions contradicts the standards of democratic societies and the principles established by the Constitution of the country.

The insulting and rude descriptions of journalists, while they are carrying out their work, as well as the accusatory and derogatory qualifications towards the Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AGK), by the member of the Central Election Commission, Mr. Sami Kurteshi, exceed the reasonable limits of behavior and ethics of public figures who bear institutional responsibilities. Such

language serves an environment that targets, limits and violates the work of the media and the free exercise of the profession of journalism.

Also, deeply disturbing, unacceptable and condemnable is the language used by Mr. Sami Lushtaku, newly elected mayor of the Municipality of Skenderaj against Ms. Adriana Matoshi. No kind of reaction or counter-reaction justifies humiliating and discrediting attributes towards the personal, moral, gender or any other nature, towards another. Such attacks reveal a discriminatory mindset and a degrading approach, not only for the individual to whom they are addressed, but moreover, such statements feed the language of hate, prejudice and gender inequality and undermine the progress achieved with much effort, over the years, in the Republic of Kosovo.

The Ombudsperson emphasizes that this language used these days, which unfortunately is not for the first time nor isolated to only a few specific names, except for what was said above, is an example of how freedom of expression can be misused and how political power can be abused.

Moreover, given the broader context of developments and processes that await us, the Ombudsperson calls for political maturity, for restraint from the use of degrading, stigmatizing and unacceptable language. As always and especially in sensitive periods, the responsibility of public figures is mandatory, with an emphasis on those who hold institutional responsibilities, who must be promoters of moderate, correct and tolerant language.