The European Democratic Party strongly condemned the statement made by Serbian Minister of Information Boris Bratina, who claimed that young people “are not aware that the local police have the right to beat and kill them,” according to an official statement.
“At a time when students and young people are peacefully protesting, such rhetoric contributes to a dangerous climate in which police violence is legitimized rather than prevented. This comes amid growing concerns from international organizations about the use of force, intimidation of the media, and pressure on civil society in Serbia,” the party stated.
The Secretary General of the European Democratic Party, Sandro Gozi, emphasized that Bratina’s remarks are shocking and unacceptable.
“No democratic government can suggest, explicitly or implicitly, that violence against its own citizens—especially young people—is justified. This is a red line. President Aleksandar Vučić bears full political responsibility for this dangerous drift. If these words are not immediately withdrawn, Boris Bratina must be dismissed without delay. Serbia cannot claim to be moving toward Europe while tolerating rhetoric that normalizes repression and intimidation. Europe stands with Serbian students, journalists, and all citizens who are peacefully defending their rights,” Gozi said.
The European Democratic Party reiterated that respect for fundamental rights, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful protest are essential conditions for any country aspiring to a European future.
