Croatian protests mark solidarity with migrants

BELGRADE, Serbia (AA) - A series of events aimed at helping refugees were held in Croatia's capital Zagreb on Tuesday to mark the International Day of Non-Violence.

Members of the Regional Address for Non-violent Action (RAND) along with the Peace Initiative Association marked the Day of Non-Violence by standing in silence in a circle in front of Zagreb Cathedral with a message "There is no refugee crisis, there is a test for humanity."

"We are challenged today to turn the refugee wave into a political welcome action, not wire, fire, breaking up cell phones [...] it is something that is below the level of civilization, but also of Christian values," said Ana Rafaj from RAND and the Peace Initiative.

Meanwhile, activists from the Welcome Initiative held a protest in front of the Croatian government building.

With photographs apparently showing beaten migrants and refugees, activists released testimony about alleged violence of the Croatian police against the refugees.

Lea Horvat from Welcome Initiative claims that police violence against refugees has been ongoing for three years at Croatian borders, but also inside the country.

Horvat says these claims are backed by refugees themselves, numerous reports by foreign media, and international organizations.

This association filed criminal charges against employees of the Croatian police in 2017.