The University of Belgrade strongly condemns the abuse of the tragic event at the Faculty of Philosophy for political manipulation, the shameless campaign of tabloid media, and the exertion of illegal pressure on the University and its members, the statement says.
“We are particularly outraged because, under the guise of conducting evidentiary actions in the pre-investigation proceedings, documentation is being seized that has no connection to the subject of evidence, responsible persons and their associates are being harassed, and the work and functioning of the University’s organs, bodies, and services, including international cooperation and official visits, are being obstructed. The Faculty of Philosophy was subjected to identical treatment,” the Belgrade University stated.
As they noted, such a scope and manner of action raises serious questions about proportionality, legal foundation, and the limits of police powers within the academic space.
“The fact that such interventions are carried out without adequate communication with the leadership of the institutions and without insight into the specific reasons that would justify such an intrusive approach is particularly worrying. The University of Belgrade respects the law and cooperates with the competent authorities. However, our openness and readiness for cooperation in order to establish the truth is obviously being abused. Laws are interpreted and applied selectively, maliciously, and arbitrarily, which indicates a serious regression in terms of respecting the principles of the rule of law,” the statement highlights.
The University of Belgrade will take all available legal and institutional steps to protect its autonomy, academic freedoms, human rights, and the integrity of its members, they conclude.
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Source: N1, Photo: Milos Tesic / ATAImages