Imagine a country where criticism of the regime is not just unwelcome but punishable! Serbia just showed us that by deporting Montenegrin director Danilo Marunović, known for his pro-fascist views but also for his critical voice against the authorities. His arrest and swift deportation are not just security measures – they are a clear message: critical voices, especially from Montenegro, are not welcome in Serbia.
Sonja Biserko, a prominent figure of the so-called ‘second Serbia’ opposition, didn’t hold back. She said this act is a show of force and intolerance towards freedom of expression. Raiding a hotel room, confiscating phones, and urgent deportation – all this shows Serbia has drawn a clear line: criticism of the regime is not tolerated, and the consequences are direct and harsh.
While every country has the sovereign right to control entry of foreigners, when this is applied to publicly engaged figures from neighboring countries with cooperation agreements, it turns into a political act. Marunović’s deportation is not just an administrative measure but a political message that Aleksandar Vučić’s regime does not tolerate criticism, not even cultural criticism.
Biserko warns this is a sign that cultural cooperation is no longer exempt from political battles. The regime uses security mechanisms against artists and journalists, even those from other countries. Increasingly aggressive state intervention in the cultural space has become the rule, not the exception.
This case sparked heated reactions. While some support the security services’ decision, others see it as a violation of human rights and freedoms. Marunović is known for his sharp critiques, and his scheduled appearance at the National Theatre in Belgrade was reportedly canceled after his arrest. All this casts a shadow over freedom of expression in the region.
Does Serbia really want to become a country where criticism is stifled and artists and intellectuals are persecuted? This case clearly shows that the boundary of freedom of thought in Serbia is set very low. If you care about free speech, maybe it’s time to ask – where are we headed?
While political elites play power games, ordinary people remain confused and divided. And you? Do you think Marunović’s deportation was justified or a dangerous sign that freedom in Serbia is slowly dying? Drop a comment, crack a joke, or just share your thoughts – because this conversation is just heating up!
