Serbia Faces Criticism for Expelling Activists
Serbia has expelled 13 foreign nationals participating in a civil society workshop from nine different countries, citing them as a “security threat.” The incident occurred during the night of January 21–22, with those expelled including two Albanian nationals, reports RFE.
The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Security Information Agency have yet to provide specific explanations for why the individuals posed a security threat.
The Erste Foundation, a workshop organizer, expressed deep concern, stating that Serbian authorities interrogated participants and subsequently banned them from entering Serbia for one year. The foundation highlighted its longstanding history of organizing such events since 2013, including in Belgrade, without previous issues.
“This incident is extremely troubling. We deeply regret the distressing experience our participants endured and remain committed to supporting civil society in Central and Eastern Europe,” the Erste Foundation said.
International Reactions
The European Union (EU) expressed alarm over the expulsion, urging Serbia to uphold human rights in line with European and international standards. A spokesperson for the European Commission emphasized that civil society plays a critical role in fostering healthy democratic societies.
“Serbia’s measures to address national security concerns must align with domestic and European legal frameworks. Such actions should not restrict individual freedoms, including those of foreign citizens,” the EU stated.
Albania’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs confirmed the expulsion of two Albanian civil society representatives, calling the action inconsistent with efforts to maintain good neighborly relations. The Albanian government summoned the Serbian ambassador in Tirana to express serious concerns and demanded explanations.
Croatia and Romania also reacted strongly. Croatia protested Serbia’s expulsion of five of its citizens, claiming they were targeted by Serbian authorities and pro-government media for allegedly organizing protests. Croatia has advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Serbia. Romania confirmed the expulsion of one of its citizens and requested an official explanation from Serbia.
Civil Society Response
A coalition of Serbian non-governmental organizations condemned the expulsions, describing them as “a cowardly, unlawful, and shameful decision aimed at intimidating citizens.” They called on the Serbian government to revoke the expulsion orders and apologize.
“This dangerous narrative of labeling foreign civil society activists as agents of espionage is a clear attempt to intimidate and suppress dissent,” the coalition said.
Context
The expulsions come amid escalating anti-government protests in Serbia, led by students who have blocked more than 60 state universities. Serbian officials claim, without evidence, that these protests are being orchestrated by Western intelligence agencies to destabilize the government. Protest leaders have denied these allegations.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as calls for transparency and respect for human rights grow louder.
