Serbian Police Raid Democracy Watchdogs over Alleged USAID Fund Abuse
Investigation Launched Amid Trump Administration Funding Freeze
Serbian police have conducted raids on the offices of two Belgrade-based democracy watchdogs following the U.S. administration's freeze of USAID funding, according to Nenad Stefanovic, a senior state prosecutor. The probe stems from concerns raised by U.S. President Donald Trump, State Secretary Marco Rubio, and billionaire Elon Musk regarding the alleged misuse of USAID funds.
NGOs and Human Projects Impacted by Funding Freeze
The USAID funding freeze, imposed in January 2025, has affected NGOs, media outlets, and humanitarian projects worldwide, including those in Eastern Europe such as Bosnia and Hungary.
Organizations Under Scrutiny
The Serbian Anti-Corruption Department has requested information from the U.S. Justice Department regarding the allegations. The organizations under investigation include the pollster CRTA and watchdogs Civic Initiatives, Trag, and the Policy Center. Stefanovic stated that the raids were prompted by concerns about excessive spending of USAID funds.
Civic Initiatives Condemns Raid
Maja Stojanovic, executive director of Civic Initiatives, criticized the raids as an "intrusion" and a demonstration of "pressure on civil society in Serbia." The raids took place amidst ongoing student protests against President Aleksandar Vucic and his government, with accusations of corruption, voter bribery, media suppression, and ties to organized crime.
USAID's Investment in Serbia
Since 2001, USAID has invested nearly $1 billion in Serbia to support economic growth, rule of law, and good governance. These funds have been allocated to government bodies, parliament, and watchdog organizations.
