Back to Western Balkans programme

Serbia’s Largest Protest in Decades

Civil Society Under Pressure

Serbia is currently experiencing broad nonviolent and peaceful protests. On March 15, 2025, the protest movement gathered over 300.000 persons in Belgrade, the biggest protest in recent Serbian history. The protesters allege the Serbian government of corruption, misuse of power, and misconduct after the collapse of a newly renovated canopy at the Novi Sad railway station which killed 15 persons on November 1, 2024. The protesters, mostly led by university students throughout the country, are demanding accountability and justice for the victims, as well as systemic and governmental reforms.
Protests in Serbia
© Pro Peace

Previously to the recent arrests of civil society activists, office searches of four NGOs have been conducted end of February 2025, alleging the organisations of misuse of funds. These organisations are renowned for their work on human rights, democracy, and rule of law.

Pro Peace stands in Solidarity with its Partners

Pro Peace is deeply concerned about these developments and the political pressure on these organisations and the nonviolent protesters. We emphasise that the participation of diverse groups in these protests fosters an open space for dialogue, peaceful exchange, and civic engagement. A democratic society thrives when all voices are protected and encouraged rather than silenced. The recent detentions of activists and raids on civil society organizations raise concerns about the state of fundamental freedoms and human rights in Serbia.

YIHR in Serbia and over 15 other organisations are partners of Pro Peace in Serbia. They work together with Pro Peace on projects and initiatives fostering human rights, democracy, non-violence and a peaceful conflict transformation and dealing with the past. Pro Peace strongly believes that these organisations are contributing to a diverse and pluralistic democratic society and we will continue our support for them.

Back to Western Balkans programme