21/08/2025 Monitoring
The rapporteur of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) for the monitoring of Serbia, Victoria Tiblom (Sweden, ECPA), has made the following statement today concerning the escalation of violence in Serbia:
“I am deeply alarmed by the recent surge in violence across Serbia.
For more than a week, major cities including Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Valjevo have witnessed violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Following incidents between protesters and supporters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), demonstrators set fire to SNS offices as well as municipal and court buildings. Police responded with tear gas, batons, and alleged excessive force. There are numerous reports of widespread arrests and injuries among both protesters and police officers. Protesters have also accused the police of failing to prevent the initial attacks that triggered these confrontations.
These developments represent a clear escalation of the mass protests ongoing since November 2024, which until recently had been largely peaceful.
I unequivocally condemn all forms of violence — whether committed by state authorities, pro-government groups, or protesters — and once again urge all sides to refrain from further violence and to engage in constructive dialogue.
The Serbian authorities must immediately cease the excessive use of force, ensure swift, independent, and effective investigations into all incidents of violence, and hold accountable both law enforcement officers and private individuals found responsible. Furthermore, law enforcement bodies should make every effort to protect individuals and groups from provocations and violence perpetrated by non-state actors.”