**Serbian Civil Society Breaks Ties with Authorities**
A group of 28 Serbian civil society and media organizations have announced they are cutting off all cooperation with the country‘s legislative and executive authorities.
These groups say that the authorities have been moving away from democratic standards for years, and have been trying to suppress student protests. They also claim that the protection of human rights and freedoms has been declining.
**Supporting Student Protests**
The civil society organizations are supporting the student-led protests in Serbia. They believe that the students’ demands are important because they focus on holding institutions and officials accountable.
The groups say that civil society, independent journalists, and media have been under pressure, threats, and hate campaigns for too long. They warn that hostility towards the civil sector has become institutional through a draft law modeled on Russia and Belarus.
**Standing Firm**
The 28 organizations are standing firm in their commitment to restore the institutions of Serbia to their rightful mandates and protect human rights and citizens‘ interests.
The statement was signed by various groups, including A11, Alternative Girls’ Center, ASTRA, Media Association, Online Media Association, and many others.