Serbia’s judiciary is facing a “catastrophic” situation, particularly over the past year, amid escalating political pressure and public attacks on judges and prosecutors, warned Judge Snežana Ivković in an interview with N1.
Speaking after the informal group of judges and prosecutors “Defense of the Profession” formally demanded the resignation of Justice Minister Nenad Vujić, Ivković stressed that the judiciary must recognize and defend its constitutional role.
“We must understand that we are the third branch of government and behave accordingly,” Ivković stated.
Call for Minister’s Resignation
The demand for Vujić’s resignation stems from accusations that he acts selectively, unprofessionally, and in his own interest, thereby undermining the rule of law. The immediate trigger was his attendance at a Christmas celebration organized by the pro-government outlet Informer, where guests were reportedly entertained by a convicted murderer.
Judges and prosecutors argue that such conduct is incompatible with public office, especially for a minister responsible for safeguarding judicial independence.
Escalating Threats and Intimidation
Judge Ivković highlighted that pressures on the judiciary have reached unprecedented levels, especially when court decisions displease the executive branch or political power centers.
According to her, judges and prosecutors have been:
- Publicly labeled as traitors and foreign mercenaries
- Targeted with death and sexual violence threats
- Subjected to harassment by pro-government media
- Exposed to personal attacks, including publishing home addresses and phone numbers
- Physically intimidated, including cases of arson targeting prosecutors’ vehicles
She noted that the situation has been particularly dangerous following court decisions related to electoral processes in smaller municipalities, where intimidation carries heightened risks.
Judiciary Under Systemic Pressure
While acknowledging that political pressure existed in the past, Ivković stressed that today’s targeting is far more aggressive and systematic.
“If judges and prosecutors break under pressure, who will decide on citizens’ rights, obligations, and interests?” she asked.
She emphasized that judicial officials must endure and resist, warning that the erosion of judicial independence threatens the foundations of democracy.
Public Office and Responsibility
Addressing the controversial Informer event, Ivković underlined that public officials must be mindful of their behavior and associations, particularly when their decisions affect justice and public trust.
“Every function is not only a privilege but also a responsibility,” she concluded, warning that repression against the judiciary is likely to intensify further.
