Activist: If you give up on everything, you won't start a revolution

“We often talk about 'intimidation,' but I think a better term for the current regime's approach to activists and opponents is 'wearing down.' It’s not just about creating fear of repeat incidents, it’s about making you eventually give up. If you give up, you won’t spark a revolution,” Vostinic told an interview with the Vreme weekly.

He elaborated, “Over time, you lose the strength and will to keep up with activism because it becomes too exhausting—financially, physically, and emotionally—for both you and your community.”

“You might find yourself saying, ‘I really can’t do this anymore,’ or you might silently accept that you’ll just go with the flow for the rest of your life,” Vostinic explained.

He also noted that the authorities have largely avoided arresting the leaders and key members of the protest organizations, which he sees as a deliberate tactic. “This isn’t accidental. The aim is to undermine the unity of these groups.”