Mass protests have taken place in Serbia in recent days against plans by British-Australian mining company Rio Tinto to open a huge lithium mine in the west of the country.
Lithium is an essential metal for the production of batteries for electric vehicles and other technologies, and Rio Tinto's project could supply Europe with much of its lithium needs.
The protests, mainly against the potential ecological impact of the mining project in the Jadar Valley, are not new. In 2022, the project was temporarily halted by the Serbian government after fierce public opposition. However, Belgrade recently gave the green light again.
According to the protesters, the mining could cause serious damage to local agricultural land and water sources, with possible pollution that could permanently damage the environment. They are demanding a permanent ban on lithium mining in Serbia.
The Serbian government and supporters of the project argue that the mining project would bring economic benefits, including employment 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 partnership with Serbia to ensure the supply of lithium for the European market.
Despite the EU and Rio Tinto’s assurances that the highest environmental standards will be met, concerns remain high among local communities and environmentalists. The coming weeks will be crucial for the future of the project.