Serbia’s Minister of Information and Telecommunications, Boris Bratina, has issued a public clarification following strong reactions to remarks attributed to him regarding students and the role of the police, insisting that his statements were misinterpreted and taken out of context.
In an official response, Bratina categorically denied supporting any form of violence against students. He stated that his comments had been selectively presented in certain media outlets, resulting in a distorted understanding of his intended message.
“I have never said, nor would I ever support, that anyone—especially students—should be subjected to violence,” Bratina said, emphasizing that his remarks were made within a broader historical and social context.
According to the minister, his original statement referred to the complexities of societal tensions and the risks of escalation in situations involving extremist or anarchist ideologies. He noted that, in such contexts, states have a legal obligation to protect constitutional order, institutions, and public safety.
Bratina stressed, however, that this should not be interpreted as justification for the use of force against students or any civilian group. He reaffirmed that the right to life is fundamental and protected by law, and that no individual should be deliberately deprived of it.
Highlighting his long-standing academic background, Bratina described students as “the future of society” and rejected any narrative portraying them as adversaries or legitimate targets of force.
He also warned against what he described as a growing trend of selectively interpreting public statements, suggesting that such practices could divert attention from more pressing issues, including recent tragic events involving students.
Concluding his statement, Bratina called for responsible public discourse, a reduction in tensions, and a return to dialogue, underscoring the importance of addressing societal challenges through democratic and peaceful means.
