Croatia has raised serious concerns over the recent expulsion of its citizens from Serbia, which is perceived as part of a broader crackdown on dissent by President Aleksandar Vucic’s government. This incident has sparked protests and demands for accountability from both Croatian officials and civil society.
Key Takeaways
- Croatia protests the expulsion of three citizens, including a prominent business leader.
- Serbian authorities claim the expulsions are due to security risks.
- The situation is linked to ongoing anti-government protests in Serbia.
- Croatia has informed the EU and lodged a formal protest with Serbia.
Background of the Expulsions
In recent weeks, Serbia has expelled dozens of foreign nationals, including at least 15 Croatian citizens, citing security concerns. Among those expelled was Arien Stojanovic Ivkovic, a Croatian citizen who has lived in Serbia for over a decade and is married to a Serbian national. She was given a week to leave the country after being labeled a security risk without a clear explanation.
Stojanovic Ivkovic expressed disbelief at her expulsion, stating, "I just live a normal life, I have never even had a parking ticket." Her case has drawn significant media attention, particularly as she has been supportive of student protests against the Serbian government.
Croatian Government’s Response
Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic condemned the expulsions as "unacceptable" and demanded an explanation from Serbian authorities. He emphasized that Croatia would not tolerate insinuations that its citizens were interfering in Serbia’s internal affairs. The Croatian government has taken the following actions:
- Lodged a formal protest with Serbia regarding the expulsions.
- Informed the European Union about the situation, seeking their support.
- Called for a response from Serbian officials to clarify the reasons behind the expulsions.
Protests in Serbia
In response to the expulsions, protests have erupted in Serbia, with demonstrators rallying against the government’s increasing authoritarianism. Protesters have voiced their determination to prevent Serbia from becoming a nation characterized by fear and repression. The protests are part of a larger movement against corruption and government mismanagement, which has gained momentum following a tragic incident in November that resulted in multiple fatalities due to a canopy collapse.
International Implications
The expulsion of Croatian citizens has raised alarms within the European Union, particularly as Serbia aspires to join the bloc. Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic Radman highlighted the importance of adhering to EU values, including freedom of movement. The ongoing tensions between Croatia and Serbia could complicate Serbia’s EU accession process, as the EU closely monitors human rights and democratic practices in candidate countries.
Conclusion
The situation between Croatia and Serbia remains tense as both nations navigate the complexities of historical grievances and contemporary political challenges. The expulsion of Croatian citizens not only highlights the fragile state of relations between the two countries but also underscores the broader issues of dissent and governance in Serbia under President Vucic’s administration. As protests continue and international scrutiny increases, the future of Serbian democracy and its relationship with its neighbors hangs in the balance.
Sources:
- Croatia Calls on Serbia to Explain Expulsions of Three Citizens, Balkan Insight.
- Croatia protests Serbia’s expulsions of its citizens as part of crackdown on dissent, AP News.
- Croatia protests Serbia’s expulsions of its citizens as part of crackdown on dissent, Newsday.
- Croatia protests Serbia’s expulsions of its citizens as part of crackdown on dissent, Goshen News.
- Croatia protests Serbia’s expulsions of its citizens as part of crackdown on dissent, 巴士的報.
