Urgent Call to Identify and Prosecute the Attackers of Vladimir Arsenijević
The Academy for Democratic Development (ADD) strongly condemns the physical attack on the prominent writer and founder of the “Krokodil” association, Vladimir Arsenijević, who was intercepted, attacked, and beaten in the very center of Belgrade by a group of twenty to thirty young men.
This savage act, accompanied by horrific threats and insults, represents a direct attack on freedom of thought and the safety of citizens. We remind the public that Arsenijević and the premises of the “Krokodil” association have been the targets of frequent attacks and vandalism in the past. It is clear that an orchestrated campaign of intimidation has been waged against them for a long time due to their anti-war activities and advocacy for dealing with the past. The fact that the attack occurred at the exact location where a commemoration for the victims of the Srebrenica genocide was scheduled to take place today is proof that the beating of Arsenijević is a direct result of this very campaign.
We warn once again that such incidents are not isolated cases, but a terrifying reflection of the atmosphere in today’s society, in which painting targets on dissenters, lynching, and even physical attacks have become an everyday occurrence.
When the very top of the regime actively participates in creating such an environment by relativizing crimes, glorifying convicted war criminals, protecting murals dedicated to them, and denying the Srebrenica genocide, it sends a direct message to extremist and hooligan groups that such attacks are not only allowed, but desirable. Violence on the streets is the natural consequence of a policy that nurtures hate and celebrates criminals as heroes.
The Regional Academy for Democratic Development demands an immediate reaction from the competent authorities. We demand that the police and the prosecutor’s office identify, bring to justice, and prosecute all participants in the attack on Vladimir Arsenijević without any delay.
Any ignoring or covering up of this case will be yet another proof that the institutions of this country protect thugs, and not its citizens.
Academy for Democratic Development
Novi Sad, July 11, 2026
