25 Dec Three Freedoms Under the Magnifying Glass: December 12 – December 25, 2025

Posted at 11:51h in News, Three Freedoms Under the Magnifying Glass by

Belgrade, December 25, 2025

Violations of basic freedoms in Serbia

December 12 – December 25, 2025

 

The past two weeks have been extremely challenging, above all for journalists in Serbia. Unfortunately, we are ending the year with a wave of insults and threats: threats of arson, execution, and violence – the same kinds of threats journalists have been exposed to throughout the entire year. Thanks to the dedicated and consistent work of professional media workers, this year we were able to see and hear what was happening on the streets and in cities across Serbia. What was happening was a civic struggle and an expression of the desire for a better and different society. The waves of threats arriving at the end of 2025 are merely the conclusion of this turbulent, unstable, and violent year, marked by the regime’s repression of students, professors, workers, farmers, activists, journalists, and all free-thinking members of society.

During the observed period, there was also a break-in and destruction of property at the home of an activist from the association “Women for Peace.” This attack reflects the gendered dimension of violence that characterized the repressive mechanisms of the authorities throughout the year, particularly against female students who were beaten, humiliated, and threatened with rape and slaughter. Violence against women at protests by the police, femicides, and attacks on women human rights defenders are dimensions that must not be ignored in the struggle for a different society – a society of equal citizens of Serbia.

Nevertheless, despite everything negative that marked this year, it will also be remembered for the hope awakened by students across Serbia. Walks, runs, and bicycle rides to towns and cities throughout Serbia and Europe mobilized citizens. Tens of thousands of public gatherings were held, including some of the largest protests in Serbia’s history. Solidarity and togetherness returned to the streets of the country thanks to young people who showed that the fight for freedom, the rule of law, and democracy is worth pursuing. And the struggle continues, it is not over yet.

Happy holidays, and may 2026 be a year of winning freedoms back!