Lithium Mining Battle in Serbia’s Jadar Valley: Community Uprising against Environmental Threat

In Serbia’s Jadar Valley, local farmer Zlatko Kokanovic leads a fervent opposition against a proposed lithium mine by multinational Rio Tinto. Critics argue the mine threatens the environment, while the government insists it’s a vital economic opportunity. Protests and debates continue amid environmental and political tensions.

In Serbia’s Jadar Valley, a proposed lithium mine by multinational company Rio Tinto has sparked significant local opposition, spearheaded by farmer Zlatko Kokanovic. “All of us here, we are ready to lose our lives,” Kokanovic told the Associated Press.

Critics argue that the mine threatens to inflict irreparable pollution on the lush farming valley, endangering underground water reserves, farmland, and local rivers. Thousands are expected at a major rally in the capital Belgrade, demanding a law to ban lithium mining in Serbia.

Despite mass protests in 2021 and 2022 forcing a temporary halt, the Serbian government revived the mine plans in July. Officials claim the project could elevate Serbia as a top European country in combating climate change. However, environmental experts and local residents remain skeptical, citing the potential for enormous ecological harm.