The National Youth Council of Serbia (KOMS), with the support of the National Association of Youth Work Practitioners (NAPOR), has created the Manifesto of the Youth Sector of Serbia, warning about the systematic violation of young people’s rights, the growing presence of violence, and the institutional exclusion of young people from decision-making processes.

The Manifesto highlights that young people in Serbia have been exposed to pressure, threats, and physical attacks, especially following the beginning of student blockades in November last year. By February 20th, 73 attacks on young people had been recorded, including arrests, hate speech, and intimidation of activists. At the same time, the youth sector has been facing stigmatization and discreditation, while institutions often remain passive or fail to respond adequately.

Organizations demand respect for constitutionally guaranteed rights of young people, their inclusion in decision-making processes, and an urgent institutional response to all forms of violence and repression.

We demand:

• The urgent fulfillment of students’ demands,
• Respect for constitutionally guaranteed human rights,
• A state that actively and equally involves young people in decision-making processes,
• An enabling environment for the development of young people as active citizens.

Through this document, signed by 116 organizations and individuals, KOMS aims to highlight the concrete needs and demands of young people in Serbia and to encourage institutions to respond adequately in line with the real challenges young people are facing.