Serbia: Activists to protest in cities across country on July 21 and 22

Event

Activists affiliated with the Serbia Against Violence movement plan to stage protest marches in several cities across Serbia on July 21 and 22. The purpose of the actions is to condemn violence and political corruption; protest organizers are also demanding the dismissal of several officials. The largest of the gatherings will likely be the demonstration slated to take place in Belgrade. Participants will gather near the National Assembly Building at 20:00 July 22 before marching to the RTS building. The march will follow Decanska Street northwest, turn east on Makedonska Street, continue southeast along Svetogorska Street, turn southeast on Takovska street and then end in front of the RTS building.

Protest organizers have also announced that demonstrations will take place in more than 30 other cities, including the following:

• Novi Sad: Organizers have announced that protests in Novi Sad will differ in form from previous marches, but it is unclear where and how the announced protest may occur;

• Nis: March from City Hall (Gradska Kuca) building east along July Seventh Street (Sedmog Jula Ulica) to the roundabout connecting July Seventh Street, Nemanjica Boulevard, and Vojvode Misica Street starting at 19:00 July 21.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased police presence near rally locations and along march routes. Localized transport disruptions are likely in areas impacted by protest activity. Although significant violence is unlikely, isolated clashes cannot be ruled out.

Context

The Serbia Against Violence movement began in the wake of mass shootings that occurred on May 3 and 4. Initially expressing outrage at the government's perceived failure to prevent such incidents, activists associated with the movement have expanded their list of grievances to include state corruption, perceived impunity of organized crime, and alleged media promotion of violence.

Advice

Avoid the areas of the announced protests as a standard security precaution. Allow extra time to reach destinations near rally locations and along march routes until the demonstrations have ended and the participants have vacated the area. Heed the instructions of local security personnel.