Serbian police crack down on civil society organisations

Amid ongoing mass demonstrations in Serbia, police have begun raiding civil society organisations that have received funding from USAID. Two affected organisations are Civil Rights Defenders former partners, Center for Research Transparency and Accountability and Civic Initiatives.

“The Serbian government is using all means available to tighten its grip on power. The fact that they are now targeting civil society is an extremely concerning development,“ says Ivana Randjelovic, Europe Director at Civil Rights Defenders’ office in Belgrade.

Prosecutor Cites Trump and Musk

Today, raids were launched against organisations that have received USAID funding, following orders from the Public Prosecutor’s Office. According to the prosecutor, the aim is to investigate how civil society organisations have used American taxpayers’ money. The Prosecutor’s Office stated that the investigation was initiated with reference to statements from, among others, U.S. President Donald Trump and DOGE’s leader Elon Musk regarding USAID funding.

“It is remarkable that the Public Prosecutor’s Office is citing statements from American politicians and businessmen as justification for launching an investigation, despite no formal request from the U.S. USAID has supported Serbia’s municipalities, strengthened the economy, and contributed to judicial reforms for nearly 25 years—now, its funding is being used as a pretext to attack civil society,” says Ivana Randjelovic, Director Europe Department at Civil Rights Defenders.

Despite USAID’s long-standing contributions, none of its projects have previously been subject to investigation by the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Coordination with Pro-Government Media

President Aleksandar Vučić has significant control over the media landscape, and Serbia ranks poorly on Reporters Without Borders’ Press Freedom Index (98/180), facing serious issues with corruption and propaganda. According to local organisations, media outlets published reports about the raids before they even took place.

“We are deeply concerned that the media knew about the planned police raids before they were carried out. This suggests deliberate coordination between authorities and the media to stage a public smear campaign. Using the justice system as a tool to silence critical voices and manipulate public opinion is a clear sign that Serbia is heading in a dangerous direction,” says Ivana Randjelovic.

A Government Under Pressure

Serbia is currently experiencing the largest protests in the country’s history. The government is under immense pressure and has responded with threats, smear campaigns, and violent, orchestrated counter-demonstrations.

“At a time when citizens are demanding greater transparency and accountability from those in power, the state is trying to deflect attention from its own responsibilities by targeting civil society organisations—organisations whose work, funding, and outcomes have been fully transparent,” says Ivana Randjelovic.