Serbian Environmental Activist Faces Death Threats Amid Protests Against Lithium Mining

Aleksandar Matkovic, a Serbian environmental activist and co-author of a declaration opposing lithium mining, has reported receiving a series of death threats following his involvement in protests against a massive lithium mining project in Serbia. The threats began on August 14, just days after widespread demonstrations erupted in response to plans by Rio Tinto, a British-Australian mining giant, to develop a $2.4 billion lithium mine in the Jadar Valley.

Matkovic initially dismissed the threats as a prank but grew increasingly concerned as the messages became more specific and menacing. The first message arrived via Telegram, stating, “We will follow you until you disappear, scum.” A second message, referencing his opposition to Rio Tinto, was sent from a profile located just 500 meters from Matkovic’s location, suggesting he was being watched.

Matkovic, who was visiting a friend in Split at the time, quickly realized the gravity of the situation. The third message, written in broken German, warned him to stay out of public view and threatened both his life and the safety of his younger brother. This message prompted Matkovic to report the threats to the Belgrade police, who are now investigating.

The conflict over lithium mining in Serbia has sparked significant unrest, drawing together various groups, including environmentalists, leftists, and ultra-nationalists, all concerned about the potential environmental and social impacts of the project. Serbia’s president, Aleksandar Vucic, has accused the opposition of attempting to incite a "color revolution" in the Balkans.

The Jadar Valley, where the lithium deposits are located, is seen as a key site for the European Union’s strategy to secure critical minerals for electric vehicle batteries. The EU has set a goal of extracting at least 10% of the lithium it needs within Europe by 2030. In July, Serbia’s constitutional court overturned a ruling that had previously blocked the Jadar mining project, paving the way for further development. Shortly afterward, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Belgrade to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Serbian government to integrate the country’s critical raw materials into Europe’s supply chain.

Matkovic, who has been vocal about his concerns regarding the project, argues that such agreements could entrench Serbia in a "neocolonial" relationship with Europe. He has also called for alternative approaches to green transport, emphasizing the need for investment in public transportation infrastructure and the exploration of alternative battery technologies.

Rio Tinto has publicly condemned the threats against Matkovic, as well as the intimidation faced by its own employees in Serbia. The company stated, “Rio Tinto strongly condemns any direct or implied threat of violence, online or elsewhere, against those participating in the debate about the Jadar project.”

Fearing for his safety, Matkovic has taken steps to protect himself and his family, including considering seeking refuge in a European embassy in Belgrade. He also plans to request intervention from the United Nations special rapporteur on environmental defenders.

Reflecting on his situation, Matkovic questioned the implications of such threats in the context of global climate efforts: “What sort of a green transition is it that we want if we have to kill people to achieve it?”