The Council of the Learned Society expresses its support for the Serbian academic community

The Council of the Learned Society expresses its support for Serbian students and university representatives who are facing intimidation and attacks on academic freedom.

On Saturday, 15 March 2025, hundreds of thousands of protesters, primarily students, took to the streets of Belgrade. It was the largest protest so far in a series that began in November last year, following the collapse of a railway station shelter roof in Novi Sad that resulted in the deaths of 15 people. Citizens, led by students, are protesting against corruption in public administration and the prioritization of private interests over the proper management of public affairs.

The police have been accused of using a sonic weapon during Saturday's protest in violation of Serbian law. Protest participants are being intimidated, and the Rector of the University of Belgrade, who has spoken out to defend academic freedom, faces attacks from public officials.

Members of the international academic community have expressed their concern over the situation in a public appeal, which the Council of the Learned Society endorses. Among other things, it says:

"We call on the Serbian authorities to immediately and transparently investigate the events related to the protests, hold accountable those responsible for the unlawful use of force against demonstrators, and ensure the safety of students, academics, and all citizens exercising their right to peaceful expression."

Photo by Никола Ђорђевић, CC BY-SA 4.0