In Belgrade’s central park, LGBTQ activists gathered to protest a spate of violence against the community, including a recent stabbing that left a young man injured. The rally, named “Hate Kills!”, aimed to urge authorities to take action to protect the LGBTQ community and promote tolerance. Serbia is a staunchly conservative nation, where harassment and violence against the LGBTQ community is widespread, and right-wing extremist groups have gained strength under the populist government.
According to activists, three more gay men were attacked in late February, one of whom was hit with a bottle. The police have arrested two suspects in connection with the stabbing incident. However, rights groups have reported a total of 68 attacks on gays since August, and activists have demanded an efficient legal procedure against the perpetrators of these crimes.
While Serbia has pledged to boost LGBTQ rights as it seeks European Union membership, the ban on a pan-European pride march last year over threats from extremists was a clear indication that much more needs to be done. The march was eventually held following international criticism, but only along a limited route and amid clashes between police and soccer hooligans.
Friday’s gathering in Belgrade was held under heavy protection from riot police, and no incidents were reported. Activists hailed the police arrests of suspected attackers but said that it was just the beginning, and that institutions must start doing their job to ensure justice for the LGBTQ community.