The Fight Against Lithium Mining in Serbia

Tens of thousands gathered in central Belgrade to protest a planned lithium mining project by British-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto in western Serbia. Concerns over pollution of agricultural land and water drove the demonstrators, who fear the environmental impact of the project. If successful, the mine could significantly reduce Europe’s lithium shortages, crucial for electric car and smartphone battery production.

Despite EU support for the project, protesters waved Serbian flags and chanted against Rio Tinto, demanding the project be halted. The government accused the protesters of ulterior motives, labeling the demonstrations as politically driven. Protest leaders emphasized the ecological nature of the rally, denying claims of seeking a coup.

Following a deadline given to the government to cancel the project, protesters mobilized when it expired. The $2.4 billion Jadar mine aims to cover a large portion of Europe’s lithium needs, but opponents remain skeptical about the environmental promises made by the company and government.

While lithium is essential for sustainable technologies like electric cars, the environmental costs of mining it raise concerns among activists and local communities.

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