Serbia is under increasing international scrutiny due to allegations of human rights violations and the use of invasive surveillance technologies against activists and journalists. Reports from Amnesty International and other organizations reveal a troubling pattern of digital repression, raising concerns about the state of civil liberties in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Amnesty International reports widespread use of spyware against activists and journalists in Serbia.
- The Serbian government is accused of using advanced surveillance technologies, including Cellebrite and a domestically developed spyware called NoviSpy.
- Protests against government actions have been met with increased repression, including arrests and intimidation tactics.
Allegations Of Digital Surveillance
Amnesty International’s recent report highlights the Serbian authorities’ use of digital tools to monitor and control civil society. The report details the deployment of various spyware, including the notorious NSO Group’s Pegasus and a new domestic spyware known as NoviSpy. These tools have reportedly been used to target independent journalists and activists, compromising their privacy and freedom of expression.
The report cites specific cases, such as that of Slavisa Milanov, an independent journalist whose phone was hacked after a routine traffic stop. Forensic analysis revealed that his device was accessed using Cellebrite technology, allowing authorities to extract sensitive data without due process.
Increased Repression Amid Protests
The human rights situation in Serbia has deteriorated, particularly in response to protests against controversial projects like lithium mining and the recent railway station disaster in Novi Sad, which resulted in 15 fatalities. A CIVICUS report indicates that the government has responded to these protests with heightened repression, including excessive force and arbitrary arrests.
- Protest Statistics:
- Over 177 incidents of rights violations recorded from January to November 2024.
- Numerous activists arrested for participating in peaceful protests.
The Role Of Advanced Surveillance Technology
The Serbian government has been accused of employing advanced surveillance technologies to monitor dissent. Reports indicate that the Security Information Agency (BIA) has utilized Cellebrite’s forensic tools to unlock phones and install spyware like NoviSpy, which can covertly capture data and monitor communications.
- Capabilities of NoviSpy:
- Access to call logs, contacts, and SMS messages.
- Remote activation of the device’s microphone and camera.
- Covertly uploads data to government-controlled servers.
International Response And Concerns
The international community has expressed alarm over Serbia’s surveillance practices. Amnesty International has called for immediate action to halt the misuse of spyware and ensure accountability for human rights violations. The Serbian government, however, has dismissed these allegations as unfounded, claiming that its security operations comply with national laws.
As Serbia seeks closer ties with the European Union, these issues pose significant challenges to its aspirations for integration, particularly regarding human rights and democratic governance. The ongoing protests and the government’s response will likely continue to draw international attention and scrutiny as the situation evolves.
In conclusion, the allegations of digital surveillance and repression in Serbia highlight a critical juncture for civil liberties in the country. The international community’s response will be crucial in shaping the future of human rights in Serbia.
Sources
- Amnesty International warns of digital surveillance in Serbia, N1.
- Protesters’ Arrests Fuel Human Rights Concerns in Serbia, Report Says | Balkan Insight, Balkan Insight.
- Silent Spying: How Serbian Intelligence Hacks Activists’ Phones – Without Them Knowing | Balkan Insight, Balkan Insight.
- Serbia used Israeli firm’s tech to enable spy campaign, Amnesty says – Euractiv, Euractiv.
- Serbia used spyware to hack phones of journalists and activists, Amnesty says | Euronews, Euronews.
