Serbia: Anti-government demonstrators gather in Belgrade October 10

Event

Anti-government demonstrators gathered in the capital Belgrade on Saturday, October 10, amid continued calls denouncing President Aleksandar Vučić's administration. Several demonstrations occurred on Saturday in Belgrade, including at the University of Belgrade Faculty of Philosophy, outside the Radio Television of Serbia building, and at Republic Square. Yesterday's demonstrations seemingly remained peaceful.

Violent clashes between security forces and protesters were witnessed in Serbia on Tuesday, October 6, and Wednesday, October 7, and peaceful demonstrations took place on Thursday, October 8, in Belgrade and several other towns across Serbia. Tuesday's protests were reportedly triggered after president Vučić announced that Belgrade would be placed under a new three-day lockdown amid an uptick in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases. The demonstrations then took on more of a holistic anti-government tone, including denouncing allegations of widespread child trafficking in the country, among other issues.

Protests are likely to continue in Serbia over the near term, and further COVID-19 measures are likely to be announced which may cause further unrest. A heightened security presence and localized travel disruptions should be anticipated in the vicinity of the event.

Advice

Those in Serbia are advised to monitor developments, avoid large gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.