The city of Novi Sad is located on the banks of the Danube. A year after the tragedy in Novi Sad: the UN called for the punishment of those responsible Human rights
A year after the collapse of a awning at a train station in Serbia killed 16 people and sparked a wave of student protests, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called for renewed efforts to bring those responsible to justice. He stressed that restoring public trust in government institutions and upholding the rule of law are critical.
Türk added that the situation is aggravated by numerous accusations of attacks on peaceful protesters and journalists, as well as arbitrary detentions, which were not investigated or went unpunished.
Protests and government response
Over the past year, Serbia has been protesting across the country to demand accountability for those responsible for the Novi Sad tragedy, a stronger fight against corruption, and the release of people arbitrarily detained during or after peaceful protests. Authorities reject these claims, accusing protesters of inciting violence and claiming “external interference.”
Call for investigation and protection of rights
The High Commissioner reiterated the need for an urgent, transparent, independent and effective investigation into the Novi Sad awning collapse as legal proceedings against alleged perpetrators have reached an impasse.
Turk stressed the importance of an impartial investigation into all allegations of arbitrary arrests and detentions, as well as disproportionate use of force by law enforcement during demonstrations.
Freedom of expression and independence court
Turk recalled Serbia’s obligations to respect the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, emphasizing that measures to ensure public order should not go beyond the strictly defined limits established by international law.
The High Commissioner noted that an independent judiciary, free from political pressure, is the only way to maintain confidence in the rule of law law.