The organization “Civil Rights Defenders” condemns latest smear campaign against Vanja Calovic, Executive Director of the Montenegrin non-governmental organization MANS, and requires immediate reaction of the Government of Montenegro. Vanja Calovic was the first person who was involved in Natalija Project in the Western Balkans because of her courageous fight against corruption and efforts to protect human rights.
Dirty campaign is channeled through the Montenegrin daily “Informer”, which is known for its often attacks toward those who criticize the Government. In direct intention to dispute her work in the fight against corruption, this newspaper published offensive images of a sexual nature on its front page claiming falsely that in them is Vanja Calovic.
It is clear that their disclosure was a deliberate attempt to discredit her personal and professional integrity, but also to simultaneously threaten the work of MANS. This is not the first smear campaign against Vanja, because in May of this year was carried out a similar attack after MANS uncovered a number of irregularities and vote-buying in the local elections that were held in several municipalities in Montenegro.
“The Government of Montenegro has to ensure to those who fight for human rights, to operate without obstruction or fear of repression. A clear message must be sent condemning these attacks, but also make all efforts that those who carry out such attacks are brought to justice”, said Goran Miletic, Program Director for the Western Balkans of the organization Civil Rights Defenders.
Complete press release HERE
