The Human Rights House Banja Luka provides full support to the peaceful student protests in Serbia and expresses its compassion over the tragedy that claimed 15 lives in Novi Sad on November 1.
Recognizing the importance of youth and the academic community for the future of every society, as well as their right to freely express their views, we stand in solidarity with young people in their fight for a more just society and for the competent institutions and individuals to take responsibility.
University students in Novi Sad, Belgrade, Niš and other cities in Serbia made blockades at about 50 faculties, demanding punishment for those responsible for the unprecedented tragedy in Novi Sad. Numerous citizens are also joining the protests.
Students demand the uncovering of complete documentation on the reconstruction of the Novi Sad Railway Station, the identification of those responsible for the attacks on students of the Faculty of Dramatic Arts and other activists, and a reduction in pressure, violence and targeting of those who publicly express dissatisfaction. They have every right to make these demands.
In a democratic state, responsible authorities would take the initiative to establish responsibility, and citizens would not have to express their demands through protests.
The Human Rights House Banja Luka strongly condemns the attacks and detentions of students and citizens who are peacefully protesting, while those responsible for the tragedy are protected. We are astonished by the marginalization of the importance of student protests and the demonization of their participants by the authorities, instead of hearing the voice of young people who are fighting for justice, strengthening the rule of law, freedom and the fundamental right to life.
The tragedy and 15 lost lives in Novi Sad should be a warning to everyone.
