Serbia: Protesters plan to demonstrate in Novi Sad July 28

Event

Protesters plan to demonstrate in front of the Police Department Headquarters on Boulevard Oslobodenja / Pavla Papa Road in central Novi Sad from 19:00 on July 28. This protest follows a demonstration on July 21, denouncing urban development plans set to be debated in the assembly, which resulted in clashes between activists, police, and private security contractors. Non-government organizations have called for a renewed protest and for security authorities to be held accountable for the earlier violence, calling the July 28 protest “Rebellion against the Mafia.” It is not known how many activists will attend the protest: around 100 took part in the event on July 21, but 20 separate pressure groups and the opposition party are encouraging the next demonstration.

A government source has also called for a counter-protest, at the same time and location. It is not known whether this will attract any attendance. If it does, there will likely be an escalation of local tension and the probability of clashes will likely increase.

A heightened security presence is highly likely for the duration of the demonstration. Localized disruptions to road travel and public transport are likely. Further clashes remain possible, and any violence would likely pose an incidental risk to bystanders. Further related protests are likely should the assembly vote in favor of the development or hold additional debates on the topic.

Advice

Avoid protests as a standard precaution and to mitigate likely ground travel delays. Plan for road travel delays in and near the protest area. Heed instructions from the security forces. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building.