The Association of Environmental Organizations of Serbia, SEOS, said it has opposed the European Union’s potential support for the Jadar lithium mining project. In a letter to senior EU officials, SEOS addressed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Vice-President Maros Sefcovic, and the heads of the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The group said it is reflecting what it described as Serbian citizens’ stance against the project.
Letter to EU institutions on Jadar project support
SEOS said its position was set out in correspondence directed to top EU leadership and the two development banks. The association stated that Serbian citizens have taken action against the Jadar project, including petitions and street protests. It also pointed to the Serbian government’s decision to abandon the project in January 2022.
According to SEOS, it is concerned about efforts by Vice-President Sefcovic connected to EU engagement with Serbia. The group said it views those steps as potentially supportive of reviving the controversial Jadar project despite prior public opposition.
Critical raw materials trade agreement concerns
SEOS raised concerns about a push to finalize an agreement on critical raw materials trade with Serbia. The association said it believes such a deal could be linked to renewed momentum for the Jadar project. It cited continued fears that political and business interests could seek a revival after the earlier abandonment.
The letter also sought clarifications related to how EU-level trade discussions might intersect with activities connected to lithium supply chains in Serbia. SEOS asked for assurances from Vice-President Sefcovic regarding any relevant engagements.
Questions over InoBat links and Serbian subsidies
In its letter, SEOS questioned whether there are ties between the proposed critical raw materials trade agreement and Slovakia’s InoBat lithium battery company’s activities in Serbia. The association highlighted that InoBat made a substantial subsidy request from the Serbian government in 2023. SEOS said it requested assurances from Sefcovic about any past or future business involvement related to InoBat or the Jadar project.
EU accession prospects and planned opposition methods
SEOS told President von der Leyen that Serbia’s EU accession prospects should not be conditioned on support for a project rejected by its citizens. The association said it wants EU leaders to respect public opposition tied to environmental and social impacts. It also reiterated that it plans to oppose the Jadar lithium project through peaceful means.
SEOS said its stated approach includes mass demonstrations and civil disobedience if necessary, referencing actions taken in 2022. The group said its letter reflects determination to prevent implementation of the Jadar lithium project.