National Network demands urgent probe after Bogdanci deaths

The National Network against Violence on Women and Family Violence has demanded an urgent, thorough and independent investigation into the deaths of two people found in the village of Bogdanci, after authorities received a report of partner violence against a 17‑year‑old girl.

They want a full review of police, prosecutor and social services actions

The Network asked for a complete review of how the police, the Prosecutor's Office and social services handled the earlier report and demanded answers to the central question: did institutions take all necessary protective measures after the complaint was filed?

The statement recalls that, following the fatal killing of Ivana and her six‑year‑old daughter eight months ago, authorities and civil society identified systemic weaknesses and pledged legislative changes, better risk assessment and coordinated procedures among agencies. Instead, the Network says, amendments to the Law on Prevention and Protection from Violence against Women and Domestic Violence submitted in August remain stalled in parliamentary procedures.

“Particularly alarming are reports that part of the parliamentary majority is challenging the proposed solutions as 'too progressive,' because they use the terms gender equality and gender‑based violence. To problematize these terms while women and girls face threats and physical attacks is unacceptable. The protection of women and children must not become a hostage to ideological disagreements,” the Network wrote.

The Prosecutor's Office has said early indications point to a murder‑suicide in the Bogdanci case. The Network also warns about the danger of public statements by certain public figures and political representatives who openly justify male control and relativize partner violence, instead of offering an unequivocal condemnation.

Among its demands, the National Network calls for a public explanation from Parliament about the status of the August draft amendments and a concrete deadline for their adoption, and it asks the Government to report on progress in harmonizing other laws the working group was to prepare after the femicide of Ivana. It demands that the amendments be put into procedure immediately and that the terms gender equality and gender‑based violence not be removed.

The Network further urged clear responsibility from the Government and the parliamentary majority to implement their commitments: mandatory risk assessment and timely protective measures for every report, and a public, unequivocal condemnation of any speech that justifies control and violence against women. The statement also recalls that Stojanche Jovanovski was sentenced to 12 years in prison for violence and for inducing his wife Ivana to commit suicide.

Photo: press material from the event