In the New Internationalist’s “Dig, Baby, Dig! Part 2: Serbia,” actor and organizer Bojana Novakovic discusses her involvement in the grassroots resistance to Rio Tinto’s proposed lithium mine in Serbia. As a leading figure in the Marš sa Drine movement, Novakovic criticizes the project as a greenwashed initiative that threatens the region’s environment and communities. She highlights concerns over potential water contamination, displacement of local populations, and the broader implications of prioritizing industrial interests over ecological and social well-being.Novakovic also draws parallels between the situation in Serbia and other global instances where corporate mining ventures have adversely affected indigenous and local communities.
The interview sheds light on the broader geopolitical dynamics at play, including the European Union’s push for critical minerals to support its green transition and the tensions arising from local opposition to such projects. Novakovic emphasizes the importance of community-led activism in challenging powerful corporate interests and advocates for sustainable alternatives that respect both the environment and local livelihoods. Her insights underscore the complexities of balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and social justice.
For the full report and sound go to The New Internationalist.
