Government requests for a thorough examination of the violent assaults on demonstrators
In recent weeks, the ongoing anti-government protests in Serbia have seen a rise in violent clashes between protesters, journalists, and security forces. Nightly confrontations have been taking place in Belgrade and other cities since mid-August 2025.
The unrest, initially sparked by a deadly roof collapse at a train station in November 2024, has grown increasingly violent. The escalation began on August 12, 2025, starting in northern cities and spreading nationwide, fuelled by allegations of government provocations and police brutality.
Videos have surfaced showing beaten and detained protesters, some taken to secret locations for rough treatment. Pro-government supporters have also reportedly attacked peaceful demonstrators, adding to the tensions.
The Serbian government, led by President Aleksandar Vučić and the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), has accused protesters of violent actions and vandalism, labelling some demonstrators as hooligans. They have threatened a potential "state of emergency" in response. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić has described the recent events as no longer peaceful student protests but outright attacks on the state, justifying the police crackdowns and arrests.
Independent local media attribute the latest escalation of violence to provocateurs from Vučić's SNS party, who are said to be supported by police and intelligence services. The police have been accused of using excessive violence and making arbitrary arrests during the protests.
The Federal Government, as an EU candidate country, is expected to uphold the rule of law. Berlin's Foreign Office spokesperson has demanded clarification from the Serbian government regarding incidents of violence against protesters and journalists during the anti-government protests.
The right to assembly is a growing concern for the Federal Government in the context of the ongoing protests in Serbia. Last week, President Vučić announced harsh consequences for protesters. Despite this, the protest movement has intensified, with large demonstrations occurring in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Valjevo in recent days.
The largest demonstration took place in mid-March, with around 300,000 people participating. Initially, the protests were focused on the causes of the train station collapse, but they later expanded to include opposition to the government and widespread corruption in the country.
Numerous people have been arrested and injured during these recent demonstrations. Pro-government protesters have repeatedly attacked anti-government protesters, adding to the volatile situation.
Vučić has repeatedly claimed that the ongoing protests, which have been going on for months, are orchestrated by the West and aimed at destabilizing Serbia. However, Deputy Government Spokesman Steffen Meyer has dismissed these accusations, stating that the Federal Government does not ignore democratic deficits in Serbia due to economic interests.
The situation in Serbia remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight. The escalating violence between protesters and security forces continues to raise concerns about the rule of law and democratic principles in the country.
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