Serbia: Demonstrations planned January 18-19 /update 1

Event

Anti-government demonstrations over the assassination of Kosovo Serb politician Oliver Ivanovic, among other things, are scheduled to take place on Friday, January 18 and Saturday, January 19. On Friday, protesters are expected to gather at 18:00 (local time) in Novi Sad, in front of the Serbian National Theatre, as well as in Nis, at the King Milan Square, and in Zajecar at the Nikole Pasic square. On January 19, protesters will gather in the capital Belgrade at 18:00 (local time) at a yet to determine place. A heightened security presence and localized transportation and business disruptions are possible in the vicinity of any demonstrations.

Context

Since December 8, thousands took the streets in Belgrade and other urban centers to denounce government policies, the poor quality of life, and the lack of media freedom. A group of students and activists initiated the protest movements, calling it "One of Five Million" (#1od5miliona); the number of protesters have now reached five million.

Kosovo Serb leader Oliver Ivanovic was assassinated in a drive-by shooting by unknown assailants in North Mitrovica (Kosovo) on January 16, 2018. Prosecutors detained three people in connection with the murder in November 2018; the court proceedings are set to begin on February 23.

Advice

Individuals in Serbia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions.