Mass protests that have been taking place for days in Serbia have taken a disturbing turn, as footage circulating on social media shows police forces arresting children among hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and other cities.
One widely shared video on platform “X” shows a minor being forcefully detained by Serbian police.
“This in the video is just a child. This is our child. Get ready for tonight. Answer the students’ call. We’re waiting for you — see you soon,” read the description accompanying the video, which has sparked widespread outrage.
The Institute for European Affairs strongly condemned the police brutality witnessed during protests across several Serbian cities.
“Detained citizens, handcuffed and forced to the ground, were subjected to beatings, including severe violations of children’s rights,” the institution stated, calling on the Department of Internal Control to immediately launch a full and independent investigation into the allegations against the police.
The protests have been fueled by deep public dissatisfaction with the Serbian government, rising violence, and a string of political scandals. Students have become the leading voice of these demonstrations, which have often been met with violent police interventions.
Footage from the protests shows the use of tear gas, rubber batons, and mass arrests — including minors under the age of 18.
International human rights organizations have raised alarms over the excessive use of force and unlawful detentions of children.
According to Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dačić, around 50 people have been arrested for “assaulting police officers,” while 27 police officers are reported injured.
In Novi Sad, protesters vandalized the offices of the Serbian Progressive Party, splashing the exterior walls with paint.
German outlet Deutsche Welle, in an analysis published Thursday, warned that Aleksandar Vučić’s regime might be pushing the country toward civil clashes through violence, provocations, and the use of paramilitary units.
