**Harassment and Intimidation in Serbia: Amnesty International’s Warning**
A recent report by Amnesty International has sounded the alarm on the increasing harassment and intimidation faced by protesters, journalists, and civil society organizations in Serbia. The report highlights a disturbing trend of government-backed attacks on those who dare to speak out against injustices.
**Journalists and Activists Under Attack**
The report cites examples of investigative journalists being targeted by pro-government media outlets through strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs). These lawsuits aim to silence critics and intimidate them into submission. One such example includes a pro-government TV station releasing personal details and making accusations against people in over 40 civil society organizations, claiming they are waging a special war against Serbia at the behest of foreign governments.
**Foreign Agents Law and Digital Forensics**
Amnesty warns that senior officials are calling for a foreign agents law to stifle dissent. The organization also found evidence of widespread use of unlawful spyware and other invasive digital forensic techniques against activists and independent journalists by the authorities. This is a clear attempt to monitor and control online activity, suppressing any form of opposition.
**War Crimes and Human Rights Abuses**
The report is critical of the government’s lack of effort in achieving accountability for war crimes. Despite over 1,700 cases remaining to be investigated, the government has focused on weakening a UN resolution on the Srebrenica genocide. This sends a chilling message that those responsible for atrocities will not be held accountable.
**Discrimination and Prejudice**
The report also highlights widespread discrimination and prejudice against the LGBTI, Roma, and migrant populations in Serbia. Council of Europe and UN human rights bodies have warned of this trend, emphasizing the need for urgent action to address these abuses.
**Protests Suppressed**
Amnesty reports that people protesting against lithium mining were arrested and questioned over social media posts or taking part in protest gatherings. Some faced disproportionate charges and extensive questioning, searches of their homes, and seizure of their telephones and computers.
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