Rector Đokić Supports Arrested Blockaders: University Destruction or Fight for Justice?
Is the Rector of the University of Belgrade, Vladan Đokić, a voice of destruction or a protector of students? As Serbia grapples with protests and blockades, Đokić has publicly sided with the arrested blockaders, sparking a storm of reactions in academic circles and beyond.
What Happened?
On Vidovdan, a day symbolizing Serbian history and unity, students participating in protest blockades were arrested. Instead of condemning violence and disruption of public order, Rector Đokić issued a statement standing by their protection and expressing full solidarity with students who have been fighting for their demands for over seven months.
Professors’ Reactions: University Destruction
Law Faculty Professor Vladan Petrov sharply criticizes Đokić, stating that his support has nothing to do with university autonomy or academic integrity. According to him, the arrest of students who potentially committed criminal acts cannot be equated with violating the right to peaceful assembly.
Political Science Professor Milan Petričković goes further, saying Đokić violated the professorial code and principles of impartiality from the start of the blockades. He openly favored the blockaders, creating division among students and supporting anarchy and violence that threatens the broader social context and Serbia’s legal system.
What Does This Mean for the University and Society?
This is not just an academic issue. The rector, who should be a pillar of stability and law respect, publicly supports those arrested for violence and blockades. This sends a message that the university is a place where justice and law are not respected, but chaos and unlawful acts are supported.
The Broader Social Context
The protests and blockades are not just a student problem. They are part of wider social unrest in Serbia, where different interests and ideologies clash. While the government tries to maintain order and law, individuals like Rector Đokić act as if they support extremists and violent actors, further dividing society.
Conclusion: Who Is on the Right Side?
Is Rector Đokić truly the voice of students and a fighter for their legitimate demands, or just a catalyst for further university and societal collapse? As the academic community divides and the state responds with arrests, Serbia watches its universities turn into battlegrounds of ideological conflict.
If you think this is just another drama, consider how far support for violence under the guise of justice can go. So, what do you think? Hero or anti-hero of the university — Đokić? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard!
