Zahtev za reakciju Evropske komisije, Izvršne agencije za istraživanja (REA), Evropskog istraživačkog saveta (ERC) i Generalnog direktorata za istraživanje i inovacije (DG Research)
Objavljeno: 04/03/2025
Dear Sir/Madam,
As Researchers, Associates, Principal Investigators, and Coordinators of European research projects in Serbia, we write to you with deep concern regarding the ongoing situation in our country. Over the past three months, thousands of students have taken to the streets in peaceful protests against the rampant corruption that has infiltrated our public institutions. The movement has gained widespread support, as it represents not only student grievances but a broader demand for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.
The protests were triggered by the tragic collapse of a newly renovated train station canopy, which resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, including a six-year-old child. This devastating incident epitomises the dangerous consequences of systemic corruption in Serbia.
The students' core requests include:
While the blockades have disrupted academic activities, the more pressing issue is the systemic governance failures that threaten the long-term sustainability of research in Serbia. Despite government efforts to portray the joint protests of students, teachers, researchers, and the general public as politically motivated, the core concerns remain clear: the loss of talented students and researchers, the erosion of public trust in institutions, and the persistent lack of accountability are jeopardising the future of Serbian science and education.
We therefore urge the European institutions supporting research and education to:
We appreciate your urgent attention to this matter and look forward to engaging in further dialogue on solutions to safeguard scientific integrity in Serbia.
Sincerely,
Members of the academic community of Serbia
As Researchers, Associates, Principal Investigators, and Coordinators of European research projects in Serbia, we write to you with deep concern regarding the ongoing situation in our country. Over the past three months, thousands of students have taken to the streets in peaceful protests against the rampant corruption that has infiltrated our public institutions. The movement has gained widespread support, as it represents not only student grievances but a broader demand for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.
The protests were triggered by the tragic collapse of a newly renovated train station canopy, which resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, including a six-year-old child. This devastating incident epitomises the dangerous consequences of systemic corruption in Serbia.
The students' core requests include:
- Full disclosure of all documents related to the train station renovation project and independent investigations into those responsible.
- Dismissal of charges against students arrested and detained during protests, as well as the suspension of ongoing proceedings.
- Legal action against those responsible for violence against protesters and guarantees for their protection.
- Increased funding for higher education.
While the blockades have disrupted academic activities, the more pressing issue is the systemic governance failures that threaten the long-term sustainability of research in Serbia. Despite government efforts to portray the joint protests of students, teachers, researchers, and the general public as politically motivated, the core concerns remain clear: the loss of talented students and researchers, the erosion of public trust in institutions, and the persistent lack of accountability are jeopardising the future of Serbian science and education.
We therefore urge the European institutions supporting research and education to:
- Publicly support the students’ demands for transparency, accountability, and meaningful reforms in governance and higher education, in line with the EU accession criteria outlined in Chapters 23 and 24 on Judiciary and Fundamental Rights, and Justice, Freedom, and Security.
- Advocate for increased protections for academic freedom and institutional transparency, ensuring Serbia meets the rule-of-law benchmarks critical for EU integration.
- Monitor the impact of corruption and political instability on scientific research in Serbia.
We appreciate your urgent attention to this matter and look forward to engaging in further dialogue on solutions to safeguard scientific integrity in Serbia.
Sincerely,
Members of the academic community of Serbia
Ciljne grupe: #akademska zajednica #opšta javnost #međunarodne organizacije i tela