Government vs. the People

Protest against Lithium Exploitation, Belgrade, Aug. 10 2024 (BETAPHOTO/Milos Miskov)

The mass demonstrations against lithium mining that have taken place in several dozen Serbian cities and towns over the past month, culminated in Belgrade on Aug. 10. The authorities led by Aleksandar Vucic responded with repression against activists and a softer approach in direct talks with citizens. There have also been subtle warnings to those in the ranks of the regime who are avoiding taking a stance on lithium mining. The Jadar project’s opponents are not revealing further steps for the time being, but the continuation of mass protests indicates that the real battle is yet to come.