One rule that applies to all protests, including the latest lithium mining protests, is that any mass disaffection must be grounded in a clear political strategy if it is to lead to change. Serbia’s opposition has an opportunity to articulate these protests in such a way, provided it understands that this battle is a marathon
It seems as though the issue of lithium mining, more than any other issue, prompted major disaffection among citizens, spreading to areas where there is a strong fear of expressing political views. This in and of itself, coupled with the fact that the protests have brought together people of all political persuasions, represents an important signal for the government, though it still has many aces up its sleeve to help it avoid political crisis and the opening of the question of early elections. And yet, according to this month’s CorD Focus contributors, the discontent on the streets provides the opposition with a chance to retake the test and attempt to turn this incendiary issue into an important political debate.