On July 16, the Serbian government reinstated Rio Tinto’s license for lithium mining in the Jadar Valley, triggering protests in multiple cities across the country. Demonstrators cited concerns about significant environmental damage and possible contamination of local water sources. The unrest followed a period when the company’s authorization had been revoked.
License reinstatement and 2022 revocation
Rio Tinto, an Anglo-Australian mining company, had its license revoked in 2022 after mass protests. The revocation was announced shortly before the April 2022 general elections. The timing was linked to public opposition to the company’s activities.
The company’s global record has also been described as contentious, with allegations including labor rights abuses in the United States. It has faced claims of serious human rights violations in Papua New Guinea. Environmental destruction has been cited in multiple locations, including West Papua and Madagascar.
Jadar Valley project and environmental assurances
In Serbia, Rio Tinto plans to develop what it describes as Europe’s largest lithium mine in the Jadar Valley. The project is part of a multibillion-dollar initiative. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has promoted the plan, saying it would create well-paying jobs and support the local economy.
Vučić also stated that stringent environmental regulations would be enforced. Protesters responded with slogans including “We do not give Serbia away” and “Rio Tinto get out of Serbia.” In 2022, demonstrations were mainly concentrated in Belgrade and Novi Sad.
In 2024, protests expanded beyond those two cities, reaching more than ten other locations. The demonstrations have continued following the July reinstatement of the mining license. Organizers and participants have continued to highlight environmental and water-related concerns.
Company response and European Green Party statements
On September 15, Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Sausholm said opposition to the mining plans reflected a “carefully designed and well-organized” disinformation campaign. He said the company is prepared to address concerns raised by the public. Sausholm also expressed worries about intimidation directed at company employees.
On September 26, the European Green Party expressed solidarity with protesters ahead of a debate in Serbia’s National Assembly scheduled for the following week. Thomas Waitz, co-chair of the party, called for genuine consultations and accountability. He warned against repeating past mistakes that resulted in environmental degradation during efforts to secure critical materials.
EU-Serbia raw materials memorandum and upcoming National Assembly debate
The EU-Serbia Memorandum of Understanding on sustainable raw materials, signed on July 19, was agreed during the Critical Raw Material Summit in Belgrade. The memorandum aims to secure stable supplies of raw materials for the EU while reducing dependence on China. The summit included German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič.
The National Assembly debate is expected to influence the future of the Jadar Valley project. Support for anti-lithium protests has come from members across different political backgrounds. With proceedings pending, developments for the project remain uncertain for the region.