As you have probably seen in the news, the recent protests in Belgrade have been markedly more tense and confrontational than the previous peaceful protests. We would like to respond to requests for updates on the situation. While we understand the concern about this development, the Local Committee in Belgrade and EERA both feel that the conference can proceed as planned. The local organisers have informed us that the protests are usually limited to certain areas and scheduled, public transport is working, and the university is accessible and open.
With the most recent wave of protests being organised primarily by local communities and civil society groups, and with less direct involvement of the Student Movement, the University of Belgrade has largely returned to its usual pace of life. As of 20 August, all research activities and examination periods are taking place in-person. Although some of the recent protests have been staged in the city center, none have occurred in close proximity to the ECER 2025 venues or to the city’s main tourist areas.
To further ensure participants’ safety and peace of mind, the Local Committee in Belgrade will set up a special channel on the Social Wall in the conference app, dedicated to providing information about place and timing of protest activities, or any changes in the functioning of public services.
It may also be of note that other professional, cultural, and civil society events are being held in parallel to and unimpeded by the protests. Among others, the Belgrade Pride Parade is scheduled for 6 September, just two days before the ERC.
We cannot, of course, guarantee that none of the participants will witness protests or a street being blocked, but daily life in Belgrade is as such not largely affected by the protests.
Our research has shown that, with the exception of Croatia, no international travel warnings have been issued at this point. This indicates to us that national travel advisory agencies have not advised against travel to Serbia thus far.
While we cannot decide for individuals whether it is “safe enough” for them to travel, as personal circumstances and sense of safety may differ, we do advise all participants to consult their national travel agencies, their employer’s travel guidance, and their travel insurance.
Having said all this and based on information on the situation today, 21 August 2025, EERA continues to plan for the in-person conference in Belgrade.
Regarding questions about a hybrid conference and/or participating online: We will neither be able to switch to a hybrid mode (i.e. offer online presentations) due to technical restrictions, nor are we planning to have an in-person conference in Belgrade plus an online conference thereafter.
Should you need to withdraw your presentation, please be in touch with EERA office ecer2025(at)eera.eu.