Balkans at the Crossroads: Lithium Mining, Human Rights, and the Fight for Environmental Justice

Start of the Session: 28:20

The proposed lithium mines in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina pose serious environmental, social, and economic risks, compounded by weak institutions and the prioritisation of private interests. Despite strong local opposition, governments continue to promote projects that will fall short of economic promises when weighed against environmental impacts.

Additionally, escalating violence against activists and the silencing of scientists have created a hostile climate for opposition. The inaction of EU governments to speak against the human rights decline has allowed these abuses to intensify, threatening the credibility of the EU's green transition.

Though lithium is a strategic raw material, by supporting locally contested and environmentally harmful projects, the EU risks undermining its own goals for access to raw materials, while exacerbating both ecological sustainability and social justice in the Balkans. The future of the region should prioritize environmental integrity and community rights over short-term profits.

In this event, you’ll hear from key voices from the field, including NGOs, academics and activists who have faced direct threats, to share their experiences. It will also serve as a space to discuss how the European Parliament can enhance its support for civil society organizations that are leading efforts to defend human rights, protect the environment, and promote social justice in Serbia.

This event took place on October 16 in the European Parliament in Brussels, and was hosted by MEP Sara Matthieu.