Serbia: Activists likely to stage protests in cities nationwide through at least late September /update 3

Event

Activists affiliated with the Serbia Against Violence movement will likely continue their ongoing campaign of protests in cities across the country through at least late September. The largest gatherings tend to occur in Belgrade, where participants will gather outside the National Assembly building from 18:00 Sept. 16 before marching to the RTS building. Other scheduled gatherings that are likely to attract a large number of participants include the following:

• Uzice: City Hall, 19:00 Sept. 14

• Nis: City Hall, 19:00 Sept. 15

The purpose of the protests is to condemn violence and alleged political corruption; protest organizers also demand the dismissal of several officials.

Smaller related gatherings are likely in other urban centers. Authorities will probably deploy an increased police presence near rally locations and along march routes. Localized transport disruptions, including road closures, are likely in areas impacted by protest activity. Although significant violence typically does not occur at such rallies, low-level confrontations 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 since expanded their list of grievances to include state corruption, perceived impunity of organized crime, and alleged media promotion of violence.

Advice

Avoid protest areas 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.