The protests, organized by the Association of Environmental Organizations of Serbia, and other initiatives, opposing the Rio Tinto lithium project in Jadar, continued nationwide, with activists’ warnings about significant environmental risks. On 10 August, a major protest in Belgrade resulted in the arrest of three activists who were charged with “disturbing public order” after blocking railway stations. The activists faced harsh sentences, that were overturned three days later following an appeal. BCSDN member from Serbia, Civic Initiatives as part of the “Three Freedoms” platform condemned the arrests as an attempt to suppress environmental dissent and intimidate activists. They highlighted the need for stronger protections for civic freedoms and accountability for government actions. The ongoing repression underscores concerns about the government’s stance on civil liberties and environmental activism. Read more here.
Source: Civic Initiatives, European Western Balkans