Prosecutors in Kumanovo, North Macedonia, have launched an investigation into potential hate speech offenses following nationalist and anti-Albanian chants during a basketball match against Romania. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has drawn condemnation from government officials and sparked outrage in neighboring Kosovo and Albania.

Key Takeaways

  • Nationalist and anti-Albanian chants, including "A good Albanian is a dead Albanian" and "Gas chambers for Albanians," were reportedly heard at a basketball match.
  • North Macedonia’s Prime Minister condemned the chants as "nationalist and xenophobic" but stated he did not notice them due to a "small group of people."
  • The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) is also investigating the incident and "unreservedly and vehemently condemns hate speech."
  • The chants have ignited strong reactions from ethnic Albanian politicians within North Macedonia and officials in Kosovo and Albania, highlighting ongoing ethnic tensions.

Investigation Launched Amidst Condemnation

Prosecutors in Kumanovo have initiated an investigation into possible hate speech offenses after spectators at a basketball match reportedly directed nationalist and anti-Albanian chants at the opposing team. The chants, which included phrases like "A good Albanian is a dead Albanian," "Gas chambers for Albanians," and "Clean Macedonia," occurred during a pre-qualification match for the 2027 World Cup. Senior North Macedonian officials, including Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, were present at the game.

Official Reactions and FIBA Involvement

Prime Minister Mickoski issued a statement condemning the "nationalist and xenophobic chants," though he noted that he "didn’t notice" them, attributing them to a "small group of people." He pledged that the chants would be investigated and met with sanctions. The Ministry of Sports stated it would assist in identifying the perpetrators. The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) confirmed it is conducting its own investigation, working with national federations and local authorities, and strongly condemned any form of hate speech.

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Historical Context and International Outcry

Tensions between the majority Macedonian population and the ethnic Albanian minority, which constitutes nearly a quarter of North Macedonia’s 1.8 million people, have historical roots dating back to the country’s independence from Yugoslavia. These tensions led to an armed conflict in 2001, which was resolved through a peace agreement granting greater rights to the Albanian minority. The recent incident has reignited concerns, with ethnic Albanian political parties in North Macedonia criticizing the perceived lack of an immediate and strong institutional response. Officials in Kosovo and Albania have also voiced strong disapproval, emphasizing the importance of coexistence and mutual respect.

Sources

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