Amnesty Gives Balkans Mixed Verdict on Rights

The latest report published by international campaign group Amnesty International on Wednesday said attacks on the gay community were handled inappropriately by justice systems throughout the Balkans and Roma continue to face discrimination.

The latest State of the World's Human Rights report profiled the state of human rights in 160 countries and territories in 2014.

In Albania, domestic violence is still widely reported, with perpetrators rarely facing criminal charges. Despite the government's commitment to improve access to affordable housing for the poorest citizens, such options remained limited. The report also noted that Albania received EU candidate status in June and held its first Gay pride march in May without incident.

In Bosnia, discontent with high levels of unemployment resulted in demonstrations and clashes with police and protestors. The intimidation of journalists by government officials occurred throughout the year, and one journalist was severely beaten by police while covering protests in February.

Domestic prosecution of war crimes remained slow and civilian victims were denied access to justice and reparations. Trials were also hindered by constant criticism from high-ranking officials who sought to undermine the court's legitimacy.

In Bulgaria, conditions for asylum-seekers partially improved, although concern remains regarding their societal integration. Refugees meet challenges when seeking access to health care, education, housing and other public services. The report also said Bulgaria failed to address legislative gaps regarding hate crimes, and the effectiveness and independence of investigations into allegations of police brutality remains questionable.

In Croatia, the rate of prosecution and...