Podgorica, (MINA) – Civil society is a key element of democratic systems and should be recognized and treated as such by state institutions, the Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Montenegro announced.

Earlier, the Center for Civic Education announced that it had informed the EU Delegation on Monday, on behalf of 38 NGOs and 13 civil activists, about a smear campaign conducted against executive director of Human Rights Action, Tea Gorjanc Prelevic.

In its response, the EU Delegation stressed that civil society has an essential role in promoting transparency, accountability and civic participation, bringing diverse voices into the public debate.

They recalled that, in line with the UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers, lawyers must be able to perform their professional duties without intimidation, hindrance, harassment or undue interference.

The EU Delegation expressed expectation from the authorities to protect the space in which the civil society operates.

“Consequently, instead of engaging in public criticism and accusations in a harsh tone, we expect the authorities to protect the space for civil society and enable its constructive involvement in the policy-making process”, said the EU Delegation.

They also stressed that the representatives of the Government and other public actors are expected to refrain from making statements that link lawyers to their clients.

“We encourage an environment in which lawyers can perform their work in full compliance with the principles of professionalism and integrity”, the EU Delegation adds.