Three Freedoms Under the Magnifying Glass: May 1 - May 15, 2025
Three Freedoms Under the Magnifying Glass: May 1 - May 15, 2025

Author(s): Author Not Specified
Subject(s): Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Civil Society, Governance, Government/Political systems, Corruption - Transparency - Anti-Corruption
Published by: Građanske inicijative
Keywords: Repression; Censorship; Police Intimidation; Freedom Violations; Targeted Activism
Summary/Abstract: The document highlights violations of basic human rights in Serbia between May 1 and May 15, 2025, focusing on three freedoms: expression, assembly, and association. Freedom of Expression: Journalist Attacks: Insider journalist Stefan Miljuš was physically attacked while reporting near a camp of President Vučić's supporters. Other journalists have faced similar incidents. Inappropriate Behavior: Igor Novaković, a city official, inappropriately touched a journalist during a press conference. Legal Pressure: Activist Branimir Stojčić faced 16 identical lawsuits from ruling party officials for his protest speech. Protest Support Repercussions: Teachers, professors, and students supporting protests faced disciplinary actions, threats, and police intimidation. Entrepreneurs and musicians critical of the government were targeted with inspections and bans. Freedom of Assembly: Protest Incidents: Protesters faced violence, including attacks by ruling party members and attempts to break blockades. A woman who injured a protester was released with reduced charges. Police Actions: Students and professors were summoned or threatened by police for their protest involvement. Freedom of Association: Activist Persecution: Activists from groups like Stav and PSG face up to five years in prison for alleged crimes based on wiretapped conversations. The European Parliament condemned their detention. Youth Center Attack: A homophobic attack occurred at CK13, a youth center, during a drag event, following threats from neo-Nazi groups. Cultural Suppression: Open calls for cultural projects were canceled, and events like the Mikser Festival faced censorship and venue restrictions. Striker Pressure: Judicial workers who went on strike had their salaries reduced, violating labor rights. The document underscores systematic repression, censorship, and intimidation targeting journalists, activists, educators, and cultural workers in Serbia.

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