Serbia/Kosovo: Anti-government protests planned February 1-2 /update 2

Event

Anti-government demonstrations over the assassination of Kosovo Serb politician Oliver Ivanovic, among other issues, are scheduled to take place in Belgrade and other urban areas on Friday, February 1, and Saturday, February 2. On Friday, protesters in Zaječar will gather at 18:00 (local time) in the Timok quarter and will participate in a peaceful march through the Trg Nikole Pašića. On Saturday, demonstrations will be held at 18:00 (local time) on Sumadija Square in North Mitrovica (Kosovo) and at a yet-undetermined place in Belgrade. A heightened security presence and localized transportation and business disruptions are possible near demonstration sites.

Context

Since December 8, thousands have taken to the streets in Belgrade and other urban centers to denounce government policies, the poor quality of life, and the lack of media freedom. A group of students and activists initiated the protest movements, calling it "One in Five Million" (#1od5miliona); the number of protesters has now reached five million.

Kosovo Serb leader Oliver Ivanovic was assassinated in a drive-by shooting by unknown assailants in North Mitrovica (Kosovo) on January 16, 2018. Prosecutors detained three people in connection with the murder in November 2018; the court proceedings are set to begin on February 23.

Advice

Individuals in Serbia and Kosovo are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions.