Serbia has been added to the CIVICUS Monitor Watchlist for the third time, categorized as “obstructed,” as authorities escalate repression against civil society amid mass protests following the deadly November 2024 collapse of a newly renovated train station in Novi Sad. Public outrage over corruption has fueled mass mobilizations across hundreds of cities, drawing up to 100,000 people. Authorities initially responded with arrests and excessive force before withdrawing police protection, allowing ruling party-affiliated groups to attack protesters, leaving some hospitalized. Over 70 attacks have been recorded, including vehicles plowing into crowds and physical assaults. CSOs face growing pressure, with armed police raiding five CSOs, detaining staff, and seizing financial records without court orders. As per Anja Bosilkova- Antovska, Head of Policy and Advocacy at BCSDN, this crackdown reflects a regional trend of weakening independent civic voices, underscoring the urgent need for international action to prevent further backsliding and protect fundamental freedoms. Read more here.
