Protesters Rally Against Luxury Development in Serbia

March 24, 2025 - 22:22

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Belgrade to voice their opposition to a controversial real estate project proposed by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The plan aims to transform a site that once served as a military headquarters, which was bombed during the NATO intervention in the late 1990s, into a luxury hotel and shopping center.

The protesters, consisting of citizens, activists, and local leaders, expressed their concerns over the potential commercialization of a site steeped in historical significance. Many believe that the development could erase important memories and sentiments tied to the site, which holds a painful legacy for many Serbians.

The rally featured speeches emphasizing the need to preserve the site for its historical value rather than allow it to be repurposed for profit. Demonstrators carried banners and chanted slogans advocating for the protection of cultural heritage, highlighting the community's desire to maintain a connection to their past. The outcry reflects broader sentiments regarding foreign investment and its impact on local identities.