“We are all equal in this society. I came here to give my support and to raise awareness that inclusion is a basic principle” – Stevo Pendarovski.
The President of North Macedonia, Stevo Pendarovski, held Embla Ademi’s hand as he walked her to her elementary school in Gostivar 65 kilometers southwest of the capital Skopje after hearing she was being bullied.
He had a discussion with Ademi’s parents regarding the challenges faced by them in their day-to-day life.
As per the president’s spokesmen,
“The president stressed that the behavior of those who in any way endanger the rights of children is unacceptable, especially when it comes to children with atypical development,”
“They should not only enjoy the rights they deserve but also feel equal and welcome at the school desks and schoolyards. It is our obligation, as a state, but also as individuals, and the key element in this common mission is empathy,” it added.
The country’s ombudsman and Commission for Protection against Discrimination have welcomed the action taken by Pendarovski and opened a probe into Embla’s case.