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The Balkan route: refugees, repression and solidarity in Serbia
ANTON McDONALD reports from the Balkans on the efforts of a small group of humanitarian NGOs to support the desperate migrants crossing the region to reach Western Europe
[Anton McDonald]

THE Serbian-Hungarian border is an increasingly hostile environment for those on the move. Despite this, many continue to take this route through the Balkans in pursuit of Europe. In fact, the number of people travelling is on the rise.

According to a report published by Belgrade Centre for Human Rights, the number of “registered foreigners” in Serbia doubled in 2022 from the previous year. Similarly, data published by the UN refugee agency states that there was a 57 per cent increase in refugees and migrants passing through Serbia between January and February of 2023 compared with the previous year.
 
As part of the journey, many will temporarily reside at one of the squats and camps that exist in the north of Serbia, some only a few miles from the border — dilapidated buildings, improvised structures and tents. These compromised dwellings are considered illegitimate and therefore exist without support from the state. However, they are not alone.

In solidarity and respect

(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
(Pic: Anton McDonald)
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