Serbian Judge Calls for Work Stoppage Over 'Mrdic's Laws'

Judge Milimir Lukic of the Court of Appeals in Belgrade has called on fellow judges, prosecutors, and lawyers across Serbia to suspend work on Monday, February 2, in protest against the recently adopted amendments to judicial laws, known as the "Mrdic's laws." Lukic emphasizes the need to uphold the Constitution and the law, expressing concerns that the parliamentary majority bypassed mandatory legislative procedures and ignored the constitutional competencies of judicial institutions when adopting these laws.

The amendments, passed without public debate, have been criticized for potentially undermining judicial independence and distancing Serbia from European Union membership aspirations. Lukic's call for a work stoppage reflects the judiciary's growing unease over political interference and the erosion of judicial autonomy.

This development highlights the ongoing tension between Serbia's legislative actions and the judiciary's commitment to maintaining independence and adherence to constitutional principles. The response from the legal community may influence future legislative processes and Serbia's relationship with international bodies advocating for the rule of law.