Mass Protests in Serbia Against Rio Tinto Lithium Project

Thousands of Serbians protested in Sabac against the Rio Tinto lithium mining project, fearing environmental damage. This project, crucial for battery production, has faced opposition despite reinstated licenses. Protesters demand its cancellation, highlighting potential health hazards and EU compliance issues.

Thousands rallied on Monday in Sabac, Serbia, to protest against the Rio Tinto lithium mining project, expressing concerns about potential environmental damage. Lithium is essential for electric vehicle and mobile device batteries.

The proposed mining project in Jadar, a lush region in western Serbia, has met with significant opposition. Protests erupted in multiple towns, including Sabac, about 50 kilometers from the mine site. Demonstrators, led by Proglas rights organisation's Biljana Stepanovic, demanded the project's cancellation, citing risks to clean air and water.

Earlier this month, Serbia reinstated Rio Tinto's development license for what would be Europe's largest lithium mine, reversing a prior annulment influenced by environmental protests. Despite a recent agreement between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, protesters remain unconvinced by assurances of EU-standard compliance. Serbian citizen Sinisa Todorovic ominously remarked that the project symbolizes death for local communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)