Montenegro NGOs Demand Action Against Glorification of WWII Chetnik Leader

Montenegro NGOs Condemn Glorification of WWII Figure Pavle Đurišić Podgorica, Montenegro – A coalition of Montenegrin non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has called on the country's State Prosecutor's Office to investigate the ongoing public glorification of Pavle Đurišić, a prominent figure associated with the Chetnik movement during World War II. The NGOs argue that the glorification of Đurišić constitutes hate speech and deepens existing societal divisions. In a joint statement, the NGOs cited recent public statements and events that, in their view, promote Đurišić's legacy. They pointed to a recent statement by the Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral, who referred to Đurišić as a 'great hero.' Furthermore, the NGOs highlighted the performance of a song celebrating Đurišić at a public event. 'This glorification of a figure responsible for mass atrocities in Montenegro is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated,' stated a representative from one of the participating NGOs. The NGOs' statement is a significant development in Montenegro's ongoing struggle with its complex historical legacy. The response of the State Prosecutor's Office will be closely watched, as it will indicate the government's willingness to address issues of hate speech and historical revisionism. The collective action of these NGOs demonstrates the strong commitment of civil society to promote reconciliation and prevent the resurgence of divisive ideologies.