Serbians Rally Against Government and EU-Backed Lithium Mining Project

Several thousand people gathered in Belgrade on Sunday, criticising the populist government for suppressing environmental activists who oppose a significant EU-backed lithium mining project. The protest took place outside the state RTS television station, which is accused of ignoring the arrests of anti-lithium activists.

Environmental Concerns and Activist Detentions

Environmental groups argue that the proposed lithium mine in the Jadar valley, near Bosnia, would cause irreversible environmental damage, affecting drinking water and fertile land. Activist Nina Stojanovic stated that between 30 to 60 people have been detained or questioned across Serbia in the past two months. "We are here to protect everyone, to protect human rights and to be with each other," she said. "We have to fight and we can do it."

Government's Stance and Economic Arguments

Officials claim that lithium mining offers significant economic growth opportunities for Serbia. Populist President Aleksandar Vucic has dismissed the protests as a Western-backed attempt to remove him from power. Serbian police reported detaining individuals who blocked a highway and railway line after an August 10 protest, citing public law and order disruptions.

International Support and EU Relations

Vucic has received implicit support for the project from French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who both visited Serbia recently. Serbia is pursuing EU membership but maintains close ties with Russia and China. Analysts suggest that the EU memorandum on mining could bring Serbia closer to the bloc.

Rio Tinto's Controversial Role

The exploration of lithium and boron deposits in the Jadar valley has been conducted by Rio Tinto, a multinational mining company. Rio Tinto plans to operate the mine despite its history of accusations involving corruption, environmental harm, and human rights violations at its sites. This history has alarmed both activists and locals in the Jadar valley.

Environmental organisations reported that dozens of their activists were detained after a large rally last month in Belgrade and other parts of Serbia. Their homes were searched, laptops and phones confiscated, and many faced social media threats. Bojan Simisic of Eko Straza questioned, "What kind of a state do we live in if they arrest me for saying that the situation in Serbia already is catastrophic? And they call us spies!"

Serbia has signed a preliminary agreement on "critical raw materials" with the European Union, aiming to reduce dependency on China for lithium and other essential materials needed for green transition. The state-controlled TV station is accused of ignoring these detentions.

The protest outside RTS headquarters follows weeks of demonstrations against opening the lithium mine in western Serbia. Tens of thousands have rallied recently against this project.

The article concludes by highlighting that Serbia's formal pursuit of EU membership contrasts with its poor democratic record and close ties with Russia and China. The EU-backed mining project could influence Serbia's alignment with the bloc.