Novi Sad: Professors Sue MUP Over Campus Entry, Dean Who Called Police Believes Autonomy Was Not Violated
The first hearing in the lawsuit filed by 58 professors of the University of Novi Sad against the Ministry of Internal Affairs was held today in Novi Sad at the Basic Court. The professors are seeking compensation for non-material damages due to the violation of their rights during, as they stated, the illegal presence of police in the university campus and the violation of the rights of academic community members and university autonomy.
TL;DR
- 58 professors from the University of Novi Sad are suing the Ministry of Internal Affairs for damages related to police presence on campus.
- The professors claim their rights and university autonomy were violated by the prolonged, allegedly illegal, stay of police.
- The first hearing involved testimony from professors and deans, with differing views on the events.
- One dean, who called the police, testified that he felt unsafe and that he assessed the police's need to stay, contradicting his earlier statements.
- The lawsuit, filed on October 28, 2025, is considered a precedent in Serbia.
- Police entered the Faculty of Philosophy on August 26, the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education on September 1, and intervened forcefully during a protest on September 5, dispersing thousands with tear gas and batons.
- The defense argues the prolonged police presence, lasting over 40 days without clear justification, is the core issue.
- The next hearing is scheduled for September 28.