Nova.rs: Western embassies call on Vucic to ensure safety of protest participants

According to sources who spoke with Nova.rs, embassy representatives emphasized that every person attending the protest must be kept safe, stressing that authorities bear responsibility for guaranteeing freedom of movement. The sources indicated that diplomats suggested to Serbian leadership that it is crucial for the demonstration to proceed without conflict.

The sources added that ambassadors acknowledged rising societal tensions, particularly over the past few days, while emphasizing the importance of peaceful expression of opinions and political views from all sides.

The government, led by President Vucic, has been saying that clashes are expected on the streets of Belgrade on March 15, suggesting that gathered demonstrators might attack the police and attempt to violently seize the Serbian Parliament.

However, none of the student protests to date have involved violence, while student organizers have repeatedly stated their opposition to conflict, calling on all protesters to conduct themselves with dignity.