Stoillković Criticized for Selective Response: He Condemned Damage to Serbian Association in Kumanovo, but What Did He Do About Anti-Albanian Chants?

The response by North Macedonia’s Minister of Local Self-Government, Ivan Stoillković, to the damage to the entrance of the “Srpski Vez” cultural association in Kumanovo has drawn criticism. He was asked to explain why he had not taken the same stance in cases involving anti-Albanian graffiti and chants.

Stoillković was among the first officials to express concern over the graffiti on the premises of the Serbian cultural association in Kumanovo. However, while speaking to the media, he did not give a direct answer when asked about his position on other instances of hate speech, including anti-Albanian chants in public spaces and at sporting venues.

The lack of previous responses to such incidents was raised by Alsat journalist Zekirija Haxhiu.

“Once again, please contact the ministry, contact me. You will receive answers to anything you are interested in,” Stoillković said.

When asked specifically whether he had responded to chants against Albanians, the minister replied: “I have always responded. Let us not spoil an event like this with secondary issues.”

Before taking up his current post, Stoillković also served as minister for relations between communities. According to critics, during that period he did not speak publicly about a number of cases of hate speech against Albanians, particularly incidents reported in stadiums and public places.

Several cases of offensive anti-Albanian graffiti and chants have been recorded in North Macedonia, including slogans with extremist content. Institutions have announced that measures would be taken, but critics say that, in many of these cases, the perpetrators have not faced concrete penalties.

Stoillković’s statements have reignited the debate over the selective treatment of hate speech, as well as the obligation of institutions to respond equally to every manifestation of discrimination.