Poštovani članovi srpske zajednice u Irskoj, ovim putem Vas pozivamo da podržite studentske proteste u Srbiji tako što ćete staviti svoj potpis na otvoreno pismo koje ćemo uputiti, pre svega, poslanicima irskog parlamenta, irskim predstavnicima u Parlamentu Evropske Unije i ambasadoru Irske u Evropskoj Uniji.

Tekst pisma je sastavljalo više članova naše zajednice, i možete ga pročitati ovde:

Dear Members of the Dáil Éireann,

With this open letter we, the undersigned members of the Serbian community in Ireland, are keen to draw your attention to the escalating social and political crises in Serbia, an EU candidate country at the crossroads of democratic transformation and authoritarian regression. As Irish residents with deep ties to Serbia, we believe that Ireland, as a nation founded on the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, has both a moral and strategic interest in supporting the people of Serbia during this critical time.

For over a decade, Serbia’s government has systematically undermined the democratic institutions, eroded the independence of the judiciary, monopolised the media narratives, and manipulated the electoral processes to consolidate its grip on power. Corruption permeates every level of governance, and the rule of law is routinely disregarded. However, what stands in stark contrast to this grim reality is the hope embodied by the current wave of student-led protests sweeping across the country. The protests were sparked by a tragic accident in the city of Novi Sad, where 15 people lost their lives when the canopy of a freshly reconstructed railway station collapsed which the media in Ireland reported about (Irish Times, Irish Independent, 1 November 2024). The students, and a wider public, see this tragedy as an epitome of the government’s corruption and one in a series of events that resulted from an utter failure of corrupt government institutions

These protests, remarkable in their breadth and persistence, have united people across Serbia—young and old, from cities to the smallest towns. Citizens are standing up for the fundamental European Union values: democracy, human rights, and the dignity of every individualC. The students' demands, with a large support from the public, are calling for a transparent investigation, which the government failed to fulfill. Their aspirations align fully with the principles enshrined in the Irish and the EU law. The fundamental principles of Bunreacht na hÉireann include the sovereignty of the people, the protection of human dignity, and the importance of democratic governance. The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union guarantees the freedom of expression, the right to fair political participation, and the rule of law.

These efforts are not just about transforming Serbia—they are about building a better future for the Balkans region and strengthening Europe as a whole. A Serbia grounded in democratic values and the rule of law would be a better neighbour to the EU and, eventually, a more reliable, truly democratic member state. Supporting these movements is therefore not only a moral obligation but also a matter of strategic interest for Ireland and the European Union.

The EU’s role in upholding democracy, as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, must not falter when faced with challenges at its doorstep. Ireland, with its steadfast commitment to democracy and human rights, is uniquely placed to advocate for a proactive EU response. As an Dáil Éireann member, we kindly ask you to consider lending your voice to this cause by:

Supporting students in Serbia who are working tirelessly to protect democratic freedoms, in a manner that you find the most appropriate.

Raising awareness within your professional network as to the significance of the democratic process in Serbia for the region and the EU as a whole.

Calling on the European Union to demand concrete democratic reforms from the Serbian government, including free and fair elections and media independence.

Emphasising in Oireachtas the importance of aligning enlargement policies with the genuine promotion of democratic principles, ensuring that future member states fully embrace the EU values.

In the Irish legal and political tradition, democracy, freedom, and human rights are foundational. These principles resonate with the demands of the Serbian people today. Their courage and determination mirror the spirit of countless democratic movements that have shaped Ireland and Europe. This is a generational moment, an opportunity for the EU and Ireland to stand on the right side of history by supporting Serbia’s democratic aspirations.

A more democratic Serbia benefits not only its citizens but also the stability and prosperity of the entire European Union. I urge you to act decisively and ensure that Ireland continues to champion the values that bind us together as Europeans.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We remain at your disposal for further information or discussion at

Yours sincerely,

Serbian community in Ireland