18 Oct 2023 | 03:59 PM UTC
Serbia: Activists likely to stage weekly protests nationwide through at least late October /update 8
Activists likely to protest weekly in Serbia through at least late October; increased security, transport disruptions likely.
Event
Activists affiliated with the Serbia Against Violence movement will likely continue their ongoing campaign of protests through at least late October. After several months of nationwide protests, activists have consolidated their gatherings to focus mostly on Belgrade, where protests typically occur on Saturday evenings. Organizers have not publicized details for the next protest in Belgrade, but indicate that demonstrators will likely march to the Regulatory Body for Electronic Media (Regulatorno Telo za Elektronske Medije, REM) building on Trg Nikole Pasica Oct. 21. Historically, Serbia Against Violence protest marches in Belgrade begin at 18:00 and depart from National Assembly building. Organizers have announced an additional protest at the Stepa Stepanovic Monument in Cacak from 18:00 Oct. 20. Opposition politicians plan to speak at the Cacak rally to denounce damage to the local environment. Recent protests appeared to draw hundreds of participants. Smaller protests by local organizers 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, 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 since expanded their list of grievances to include state corruption, perceived impunity of organized crime, and alleged media promotion of violence.
Advice
Avoid the protests as a standard security precaution. Allow extra time to reach destinations near rally locations and along march routes. Heed instructions from authorities.
