Serbia: Anti-government protests continue in Belgrade March 16 /update 5

Event

Regular anti-government protests are expected to continue on Saturday, March 16, in Belgrade and other major urban areas throughout Serbia. Additionally, protesters are planning to protest perceived pro-government network coverage in front of Pink TV headquarters from around 18:30 to 20:00 (local time) on Saturday. Demonstrators will then march to participate in the weekly anti-government rally downtown. Likely protest sites include the National Assembly, Student's Square, the Serbian radio and television (RTS) headquarters, and other prominent government buildings. A heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated near protest locations.

Context

The protest movement, noted by the slogan "#1od5miliona" (#1of5million), began after political opposition leader Borko Stefanović was assaulted by a group of unidentified individuals in November 2018. The demonstrations, ongoing since December 8, have been organized to denounce perceived political abuses of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party and the lack of media freedom in the country, and to demand the resignation of President Vučić. 

Advice

Individuals in Serbia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized traffic disruptions and a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.