On the occasion of Human Rights Day, a joint declaration was signed

On the Occasion of the International Human Rights Day, Metropolitan Teodosije Took Part in the Signing of the Joint Declaration of Religious Representatives on Gender-Based Violence and the Protection of Human Dignity

On the occasion of this year’s International Human Rights Day, 10 December, His Eminence Metropolitan of Raška and Prizren, Teodosije, took part in the signing of the Joint Declaration of Religious Leaders in Kosovo on Gender-Based Violence and Human Dignity, together with representatives of other religious communities. The Declaration was signed within the framework of interreligious dialogue and cooperation, on the initiative of the United Kingdom Embassy in Pristina. The Diocese of Raška and Prizren expresses its sincere respect for this initiative of the Embassy, which has recognized the importance of the constructive role of religious communities in addressing fundamental social challenges.

The Declaration expresses deep concern over the presence of gender-based violence in society and affirms the shared responsibility to protect the dignity of every human person. In accordance with the teaching that every human being is created in the image of God, the Declaration condemns all forms of violence and expresses solidarity with the victims for the injustice inflicted upon them.

Through his participation in this initiative, Metropolitan Teodosije once again reaffirmed the commitment of the Diocese of Raška and Prizren (SOC) to the protection of human dignity and to pastoral care for all who suffer. On the occasion of the International Human Rights Day, the Diocese particularly emphasizes the fundamental importance of the protection of the human rights of all citizens in Kosovo, regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliation, as well as full respect for all ethnic, religious, and cultural rights as essential foundations of a just and peaceful society.

The Serbian Orthodox Diocese in Kosovo and Metohija consistently condemns every form of violence, humiliation, and exploitation as a grave violation of divine and moral law and remains dedicated to the calling of peace, dialogue, and reconciliation through prayer, pastoral service, and spiritual care.

Through this joint act of witness, the Diocese once again reaffirms that the protection of human dignity and fundamental freedoms remains a universal moral obligation. Only through mutual respect, the safeguarding of rights, and recognition of the God-given worth of every human being can lasting peace and trust among all communities in Kosovo be built.