Statement from the President of Université Grenoble Alpes

The raid conducted by Serbian police on the rectorate of the University of Belgrade on 31 March 2026 constitutes a serious threat to the independence of a higher education institution. Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA) firmly condemns these actions and expresses its full solidarity with the University of Belgrade, its rector, its staff, and its students.

Université Grenoble Alpes shares with the University of Belgrade a deep commitment to the values that underpin our academic mission: freedom of research and teaching, university autonomy, and the protection of democratic society. These values are not negotiable.

In recent months, we have followed with growing concern the reports of mounting pressure on students and faculty at the University of Belgrade, in response to a broad civic and student movement calling for democratic accountability in Serbia. The tragic death of a 25-year-old student at the Faculty of Philosophy on 26 March has only deepened this concern.

The events of 31 March are particularly alarming. Without prior notice, multiple police units stormed the rectorate, accompanied by a pro-government film crew that broadcast the operation live on television. Rector Vladan Đokić was confined to his offices for eleven hours. Equipment and files were seized that appear to have no connection to the investigation into the accident. These actions are incompatible with the respect owed to an academic institution and its leadership.

Université Grenoble Alpes believes that universities must be spaces of freedom, critical thought, and civic engagement — protected from political intimidation. We stand in solidarity with our colleagues at the University of Belgrade and call on the Serbian authorities to respect the autonomy and integrity of academic institutions.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain committed to supporting the academic community in Serbia.

The President of Université Grenoble Alpes