Activist: Serbia Has 'Extraterritorial Oases' Where Companies Evade Responsibility

Serbia faces a disturbing reality of "extraterritorial oases" where powerful companies operate with impunity, according to Ivana Stevanović of the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation. These zones, including industrial sites like Linglong and Ziđin, and even an area outside the Parliament building, are allegedly beyond the effective reach of law enforcement, leaving citizens and journalists vulnerable.

Stevanović asserts that the government is waging a "total war" on critical media, aiming to foster a populace that remains silent while allowing individuals to enrich themselves. This environment, she argues, is detrimental to a functioning democracy. The recent death of a worker at the Linglong factory and the company's continued lack of transparency, even when issuing statements, highlight the broader issue of state opacity.

Adding to the concern, both Linglong and Ziđin have faced U.S. sanctions for reasons related to customs and border protection. Stevanović notes the deafening silence from Serbian authorities in response to these international sanctions. The situation outside the Parliament is particularly alarming, with reports of known criminals being present and police admitting they cannot guarantee safety, raising questions about accountability and the use of public space.

The article also addresses the recent attack on journalist Veran Matić. Stevanović views this as particularly worrying, given Matić's history of needing police protection and his constant engagement with authorities. She interprets a recent public call by the President for Matić to apologize as a veiled incitement, especially following a media campaign by a pro-government organization. The implication is that if Matić, a prominent figure, can be targeted, other journalists are at even greater risk.

“

Pre godinu dana je Linglong došao pod sankcije američke Službe za carine i zaštitu granice, ali pre neki dan smo imali Ziđin, koji se iz istih razloga našao pod američkim sankcijama. Dobijamo samo jedan muk na sve to nadležnih organa.