La Strada International has co-signed a statement sharing our solidarity with the people of Serbia. Together with over 130 civil society organisations (CS0s), we have expressed our concern with the recent developments in Serbia, particularly the escalating repression and attacks on civil society and critical voices in the country, including police raids on five prominent non-governmental organisations in Serbia.
These actions against NGOs – justified by the authorities for investigating potential misuse of USAID funds – seem to be part of a broader strategy, which raises questions about the government’s commitment to upholding democratic values.
We stand in solidarity with the people of Serbia who despite repression continue to resist and protest peacefully across 245 cities and towns, drawing tens of thousands—and sometimes up to 100,000 people—to the streets. LSI remains closely informed through our member ASTRA in Serbia and continues to stand with the people of Serbia during this challenging time.
The ongoing shrinking space for civil society is increasingly alarming across all sectors. We are generally advocating against the legal and practical challenges affecting civil society’s daily work which range from changes in the legal environment, challenges in funding and access to resources, obstacles in accessing policymaking, and threats and attacks against members of staff. This also affects anti-trafficking efforts, where governmental obstacles and attacks on civil society jeopardise essential support for victims.
Civil society organisations must not only be part of on-the-ground responses but also play a meaningful role in decision-making processes to ensure effective and inclusive solutions.
Clearer messages and concrete actions are urgently needed to show citizens and civil society organisations that they are not alone in this fight, and that the EU truly upholds the democratic values it stands for.
📢 Read the sign the statement here.
Copyright: FMT