Serbia: Activists likely to stage weekly protests nationwide through at least early October /update 5

Event

Activists affiliated with the Serbia Against Violence movement will likely continue their ongoing campaign of protests around Serbia through at least late September. After several months of nationwide protests, activists have consolidated their gatherings to focus mostly on Belgrade, where protests typically occur on Saturday evenings. The next protest will occur at 18:00 on Sept. 30, when demonstrators will march from the National Assembly building to the RTS building. Additionally, organizers have announced a protest in Nis Sept. 29 at City Hall (Gradska Kuca). Recent protests appeared to draw hundreds of participants. Smaller gatherings are possible in other urban centers and towns.

Authorities will probably deploy an increased police presence near rally locations and 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.