Serbia election campaign sees rise in political violence

Political observers and the organization CRTA have raised alarms regarding an increase in violence during the current election campaign in Serbia. The organization warned that a series of serious incidents has threatened citizen safety and the right to participate freely in political processes.

Specific incidents cited include an attack on an observer from the Agency for the Prevention of Corruption and a conflict involving the Mayor of Belgrade. Critics argue that such violence, combined with the capture of media and institutional spaces, serves to intimidate and demobilize voters.

CRTA emphasized that state authorities have a responsibility to act effectively and non-selectively against perpetrators. The organization also expressed concern for the safety of its long-term observers, noting that previous attacks on monitors in earlier election cycles went unpunished.