Serbia: Weekly opposition protest in Belgrade August 17 /update 26

Event

Weekly demonstrations associated with the "#1od5miliona" opposition movement are expected in the capital Belgrade on Saturday, August 17. Protesters are expected to gather at the Terazijske fountain from 19:00 (local time). Associated rallies may be held in other cities across the country.

While previous demonstrations have generally been held without major incident, heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of the march. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Context

The protest movement, under the slogan "#1od5miliona" (#1of5million), began after political opposition leader Borko Stefanović was assaulted by a group of unidentified individuals in November 2018. The demonstrations, ongoing since December 8, have been organized to denounce perceived political abuses of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party and the lack of media freedom in the country, and to demand the resignation of President Vučić. On August 6, opposition leaders also announced that they will call for a boycott of the next parliamentary elections starting on September 1 until all members of parliament resign.

Advice

Individuals in Belgrade are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized traffic disruptions and a heightened security presence near demonstration sites, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.