Activists walk out of Novi Sad planning meeting over waterfront project

Activists and members of the public staged a walkout from a Novi Sad city planning commission meeting Tuesday, protesting the government's proposed "Novi Sad Waterfront" project. Civic Movement "Bravo" activists described the meeting as a "farce," asserting that the commission was appointed in violation of the law during a City Assembly session the previous day. A local lawyer also called for the removal of a commission member due to a conflict of interest, stating the entire commission was aware of the issue. The Novi Sad Waterfront project mirrors the controversial Belgrade Waterfront development, heavily supported by Serbian authorities. Opponents argue the Novi Sad project will consume a significant portion of the Danube riverbanks and eliminate wooded areas. Concerns have also been raised about companies allegedly linked to the Serbian regime undertaking the project. The walkout occurred after the commission rejected a request to disqualify its members. The chairperson acknowledged the request's validity but stated the decision rests with the city assembly, opting to continue the meeting. Prior to the session, activists gathered outside, with one stating they had submitted over 6,500 amendments to the project plan.

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the meeting was a farce