Serbia: Activists to protest in major cities nationwide on July 7 and 8

Event

Activists plan to stage protest marches in several cities across Serbia on July 7 and 8; the purpose of the actions is to condemn violence and political corruption. 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 19:00 July 8 before marching along Takovska Street, and subsequently proceeding north on Cvijiceva Street and east on Despot Stefan Boulevard to the Belgrade Police Headquarters.

Organizers have also announced plans for the following related, albeit likely smaller marches:

• Novi Sad: March from Banovina Palace to Varadinska Duga Bridge starting at 19:00 July 7;

• Nis: March from the Court of Appeals building to the Mayor's Office starting at 19:00 July 7;

• Kraljevo: Demonstration at Trg Srpskih Ratnika (Serbian Warriors Square) beginning at 19:00 July 8.

Although no group has announced specific plans for demonstrations elsewhere in Serbia, related protests are possible in other cities and towns. Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased police presence near rally locations and along march routes. 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 or along march routes until the demonstrations have ended and the participants have vacated the area. Heed the instructions of local security personnel.