Protests against lithium mining in the Jadar valley, western Serbia, were held Friday in the Serbian towns of Pancevo and Topola.
The people N1 spoke with said it has been a long time since such a large crowd assembled, and noted a positive atmosphere and strong support for the people of Loznica in the Jadar Valley, and all others faced with environmental threats.
Journalist Nenad Zivkovic said a significant number of people assembled in Pancevo.
“I’m pleased to see such a large turnout and a positive atmosphere here. It’s been a while since there was such enthusiasm, which is a good indicator of the mood in Pancevo regarding this issue. Pancevo is grappling with environmental problems. We stand in solidarity with all communities in Serbia and around the world that are threatened by invasive policies,” he said.
Zivkovic emphasized that the message is clear: “The current decision-making process lacks legitimacy. The government should act in the interests of the citizens, rather than catering to lobbyists and clientelist groups.”
He noted that the authorities intimidate speakers from state institutions, which is why a speech at the protest in Pancevo was cancelled.
Faculty of Chemistry Assistant Professor Konstantin Ilijevic said Pancevo residents understand “what it means to be a sacrificed city” when it comes to industries that cause chemical pollution, which is why they “stand in solidarity with the 22 locations in the Jadar Valley facing the same fate.”
Ilijevic explained that the pollution from the lithium mine the company Rio Tinto plans to open will be „extremely toxic, carcinogenic, and, above all, eternal.“
“For every ton of lithium produced, there will be tens and hundreds of tons of waste resulting from the processing of that ore,” he said.
Lithium mining is “truly an incredible development opportunity, but for a foreign company” added Ilijevic, noting that the mining rent in Serbia is five percent, and that the government will also benefit from this “development opportunity.”
MSc in Pharmacy Saska Bozic told the protest that no environmental and health impact assessment has been conducted for the proposed lithium mine in the Jadar Valley.
“What is on the company’s website is not an independent environmental and public health impact study,” said Bozic.
The anti-lithium protest in the town of Topola was organized by the Serbian Farmers’ Movement.
A large number of people gathered at the main town square, chanting: “You will not mine,” and “Rio Tinto, get out of Serbia.”
The crowd was addressed by former basketball player Vladimir Stimac, who said that the people from Topola, and from all over Serbia, are sending a clear message: “No to lithium mining.”
“Experts warn that lithium mining could result in ecocide and widespread contamination of the environment. This is a critical issue where unity is a priority. There should be no divisions on this topic. Those trying to divide the people are supporting this corrupt regime,” emphasized Stimac.
