Consul General Vladimir Božović participated in the forum “Navigating Shifts in Immigration Policy,” organized by the @SOFC_NY and the @NYCBarAssn

Speaking on the first panel alongside Manuel Castro, Commissioner for Immigrant Affairs of the City of New York, and H.E. Oswaldo Del Aguila, Consul General of Peru, Dr Božović emphasized: “Our mission is to be there for the people we serve — now more than ever. In a time of rapid change and increasing challenges, our responsibility is not to comment on or influence policy, as we are not entitled to do so under the Vienna Convention. It is undoubtedly the inalienable right of the United States to govern its own house, as every sovereign, free, and democratic nation does. As a Serbian diplomat, I fully respect and support that. At the same time, I firmly stand by all Serbian statehoods and the protection of their human rights and freedoms, in accordance with the laws of this great and democratic country — a country built by immigrants. Our duty is to find constructive ways to implement those laws more effectively and provide full support to our citizens.” Božović underscored the importance of transparency, compassion, and accessibility in consular work, noting that citizens are often confused by sensationalist media reports or inaccurate information circulating within the community. “We must be a bridge between the legal system and our diaspora — offering clear, timely, and reliable guidance, always rooted in accuracy, optimism, and respect,” he stated. The forum gathered over 120 guests — representatives of more than 30 consulates, immigration attorneys, judges, bar association members, and members of the Serbian community in New York — as part of the celebration marking 100 years of the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York.