Vladimir Arsenijević assaulted in Belgrade before Srebrenica commemoration

Writer and cultural activist Vladimir Arsenijević was attacked on the morning of 11 July 2026 under Belgrade’s Branko Bridge by a group of 20‑30 youths. He reported being beaten, receiving bruises and having his phone taken, after which the planned civil‑society commemoration for the victims of the Srebrenica genocide was cancelled for safety reasons.

The Free Citizens' Movement (PSG) condemned the incident, stating “Napad na Arsenijevića nije samo napad na jednog čoveka, već na slobodu govora”. The Krokodil Association called the assault “the latest in a series of attacks on those defending the memory of Srebrenica” and demanded a police investigation, protection for Arsenijević and official recognition of the genocide. The European Movement in Serbia described the violence as “a shame for the state”.

Cultural institutions such as the Pulski Film Festival expressed solidarity, urging audiences to support Arsenijević by attending screenings. Arsenijević himself said the lack of official response is unsurprising, calling the situation “Živimo u svinjcu jako dugo”. Police said their response was correct, but no arrests have been reported.