Serbia faces backlash over alleged sonic weapon use against peaceful protesters

On March 15, 2024, a significant anti-corruption rally took place in Belgrade, Serbia, where thousands gathered peacefully to express their grievances against the government. During a commemorative silence honoring victims of a tragic railway disaster, an alarming sound was reported, causing chaos among the crowd. Eyewitnesses described the sound as unsettling and frightening, which led to panic and mass movement in the streets. Many participants subsequently complained of distressing physical and psychological effects including headaches and disorientation. Allegations surfaced claiming that a sonic weapon, illegal in Serbia, was deployed during the unrest, igniting a call for investigation into the incident. The Serbian government initially denied the use of such weapons, maintaining that only loudspeakers were present, despite photographic evidence showing devices associated with sonic technology. Amid growing public outcry and mounting pressure for accountability, over half a million people signed a petition demanding an independent inquiry into the events of March 15. Rights organizations subsequently took their concerns to the European Court of Human Rights, collecting thousands of statements from victims who experienced health complications after the chaotic event. This situation reflects the rising tensions between the Serbian government and opposition forces, which includes accusations of oppressive tactics aimed at suppressing dissenting voices. The claim of using a sonic weapon raises ethical questions about crowd control measures and the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens during protests.