12 Jan 2024 | 10:47 PM UTC
Serbia: Opposition activists to stage protest march in Belgrade Jan. 16
Opposition activists to stage protest march in Belgrade, Serbia, from 18:00 Jan. 16. Heightened security, transport disruptions likely.
Activists affiliated with the Serbia Against Violence movement plan to hold a protest march in central Belgrade from 18:00 Jan. 16. The purpose of the demonstration is to denounce alleged fraud in the Dec. 17 elections and commemorate the sixth anniversary of the killing of opposition politician Oliver Ivanovic. Participants will gather at the Public Prosecutor's Office of the Republic before marching to the Church of Saint Sava. The number of people that may participate in the demonstration was not immediately clear.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely along the march route. Low-level confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out.
Avoid the protest march as a standard precaution. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the demonstration and any related disruptions. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers.
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. Serbia Against Violence organized a second wave of protests following the Dec. 17 elections in response to allegations of electoral fraud benefiting the ruling party.
