A prison without bars is still a prison

The Solidarity movement warns the public that the transfer of the six arrested activists from prison to house arrest with electronic surveillance merely creates the appearance of eased repression, but in reality represents the continuation of political persecution. They remain deprived of their freedom.

At the same time, the other six activists are still unable to return to the country. Arrest warrants have been issued for them, and their lawyers have not been officially notified. This is unlawful and deeply alarming, as it reveals the readiness of the institutions to extend repression even beyond the borders of Serbia.

Instead of dropping the case due to the clear violation of the law, it is being abused as a tool for maintaining political pressure and demonstrating power. The legal proceedings against the activists are unlawful because the evidence against them was obtained improperly and illegally, without respect for fundamental procedural rights.

A regime that falsely claims to uphold law and order is, in reality, instrumentalizing institutions to punish dissent. These activists pose no threat to society. They are a symbol of civic courage and responsibility. We demand the termination of the entire process, as it cannot be based on illegal grounds.

We demand:

• Immediate abolition of house arrest and all surveillance measures against politically persecuted activists;

• Suspension of all proceedings initiated solely on the basis of political activity;

• Immediate withdrawal of all unlawfully issued arrest warrants and cessation of their further misuse;

• Accountability of all officials who have abused the law and institutions for political repression.

  
  

We stand with all persecuted activists until their freedom—and the freedom of all—is achieved.