Lawyer: Gazivoda Lake residents left unprotected by Belgrade and Kosovo systems

Residents near Gazivoda Lake face demolition of their properties with little recourse, according to lawyer Dragutin Nenezić. He stated that the Ibar-Lepenac company has not followed proper eviction procedures for any destroyed structures, and more demolitions are anticipated.

Nenezić explained that the situation involves two layers of problems. The first is the clash between the Serbian and Kosovo legal systems. While Kosovo's legal system now operates in the area, documentation from the Serbian system is not recognized, despite agreements suggesting it should be.

The second issue is historical, dating back to the lake's formation in the 1960s and 70s. An entire fertile valley was submerged, and residents received little or no compensation. They were allowed to use the lake's shore for over 50 years, and Nenezić argues they have a right to be there, even if Ibar-Lepenac owns the land.

He criticized the company's director for acting above the law and ignoring eviction procedures. Nenezić added that residents can only seek legal remedies through Kosovo's courts, where they are unlikely to find justice. He described them as "left to themselves and their faith in God."

Nenezić also noted that official Belgrade appears to be pursuing a policy of non-interference in Kosovo affairs, showing no signs of protecting Serbian citizens there. He suggested this might be due to political priorities or circumstances following recent events, with Belgrade issuing only sparse statements.