Lithium is an essential metal for the production of batteries for electric vehicles and other technologies, and Rio Tinto's project could supply a large part of Europe’s lithium demand.
The protests are mainly focused on the possible ecological consequences of the mining project in the Jadar Valley and are not new. In 2022, the Serbian government temporarily halted the project following strong public opposition. However, recently Belgrade has given the green light again.
According to the demonstrators, the mining could cause serious damage to local farmland and water sources, with potential pollution that could permanently harm the environment. They are demanding a permanent ban on lithium mining in Serbia.
The Serbian government and project supporters argue that the mining project would bring economic benefits, including job creation and a boost to the national economy. President Aleksandar Vučić has dismissed the protests as politically motivated, aimed at destabilizing his government.
At the same time, the project is supported by the European Union, which has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Serbia to secure lithium supply for the European market.
Despite promises from the EU and Rio Tinto that the highest environmental standards will be upheld, concerns among local residents and environmental activists remain significant. The coming weeks will be crucial for the future of the project.