Serbian diaspora organizations from more than 70 cities worldwide have requested that European Union institutions impose sanctions on Serbia’s highest state officials and an immediate suspension of funding from European funds. As the key reason, they cite the “systematic dismantling of democracy” and yesterday’s police raid on the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade.
“We call on the EU to introduce restrictive measures against those responsible for the systematic dismantling of democratic institutions and the violation of human rights, including President Aleksandar Vučić and his key political allies,” states the announcement from groups gathered around the world.
In addition to targeted sanctions against individuals, the diaspora is asking the European Commission to stop the disbursement of money from EU funds, as it “undermines its own credibility.”
“We demand that the European Commission immediately activate conditionality within the Reform and Growth Facility. Approving funds in January 2026, despite these clear steps backward, undermines the credibility of the EU as a defender of the rule of law,” the text reads.
The Serbian diaspora most strongly condemned the illegal police raid on the Belgrade Rectorate, assessing it as a “direct nullification of university autonomy,” as one of the fundamental pillars of a democratic society.
“The regime’s persecution of the rector, professors, and students is unacceptable. The University must remain a space for free thought, dialogue, and critical thinking, without pressure and force,” the signatories say, noting that the diaspora stands firmly with the academics and all citizens who believe in freedom and the right to independent education.
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Source: N1; Photo: ATA Images