La freedom of thought is no longer safe on campuses. From Columbia and Harvard to Belgrade, the university is targeted. But while the United States still has independent courts and a free press capable of defending it against attacks in the political world, in a country like Serbia, the painting is quite different.
The University of Belgrade, which has experienced various ideological systems and forms of government during its 217 years of history, is the largest and most prestigious Balkan public university: it welcomes 100,000 students and provides 40 % of scientific production in Serbia. However, this historic pillar of the modernization of the region, civic life and critical thinking is attacked by the government for having defended the rights of students and the fundamental principles of the university. Today, our institution must fight to survive.
The crisis broke out after the tragic accident in November 2024 in the Serbian city of Novi Sad: the Gare's awning collapsed and caused the death of 16 people. In all public universities in Serbia, students have mobilized to demand that justice be done after this disaster, but also to defend the rule of law and request institutional reforms. Their protests, peaceful and guided by principles, gave rise to an immense movement of civic mobilization: hundreds of thousands of citizens united to send a common message to the State.
The University of Belgrade supported their claims – not to lead a political fight, but to defend justice and demand from the Serbian authorities that they assume their responsibilities. This solidarity sparked an avalanche of reprisals.
Slap in the teaching staff
Due to its firm support for more than six months, the University of Belgrade has been the subject of continuous pressure and repressive measures. The rector that I am, the vice-rector and the deans are the target of a Kyrielle of criminal and administrative proceedings. The media and Tabloids progressively disseminate aggressive and violent speeches against the university. Despite the efforts and determination of Serbian students – some ran or pedalled to Strasbourg and Brussels, in April and May, to draw Europe's attention to the situation in our country -, the threats to our universities can hardly find echo in public debate and the European media.
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Source: Lemonde