As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the Permanent Council, Vienna | November 6, 2014
The United States condemns the violent attack carried out on October 23rd in Macedonia at an event sponsored by the LGBTI Support Center and the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights. According to reports, approximately 30 people attacked a coffee shop in Skopje where the Center was holding an event. The attackers reportedly threw rocks, wielded broken bottles, yelled insults, and caused injuries to several people. This is the sixth time in just two years that the LGBTI Support Center or one of its events has been attacked. We understand that Macedonian authorities have investigated only one of these incidents. We call on the Macedonian government to investigate all attacks thoroughly. The government should do its utmost to promote and protect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all its citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We repeat our call to all participating States to combat all hate crimes.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
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