The Faculty of Mining and Geology, Geological Institute, Chamber of Mining and Geological Engineers of Serbia, Association of Mining and Geological Engineers of Serbia, Technical Faculty in Bor and Mining Institute in Belgrade issued a joint statement emphasizing that political struggles should not compromise the integrity of Serbia’s mining and geological professions. They stressed that the issue is not whether mining is necessary, but rather what kind of mining is needed.
The statement, released in response to numerous public discussions about mining and geology, highlighted that these fields require expertise, responsibility, independence and respect.
Experts believe that protecting the mining and geological professions from political influence is crucial for the long-term sustainability and safety of the industry.
“We call on all relevant stakeholders, both in Serbia and globally, to support a professional approach in mining and geology and to work together to preserve and improve these important disciplines for the benefit of all,” the statement reads.
It reminds that mining and geology enable the exploitation of mineral resources used in sectors such as energy for electricity and heat production, construction and pharmaceutical industries, metals and chemicals industries and play a key role in sustainable economic development worldwide.
“Without mining and critical mineral resources, technological advancement and progress are not possible, nor is the transition to renewable energy sources in energy production and environmental protection, or reducing the impact on climate change,” the statement notes.
Therefore, they argue, “the question should not and must not be – mining or not, but rather – what kind of mining.”
The statement also highlights that, according to data from the Republic Institute of Statistics, there were over 30,000 employees in the mining sector in Serbia at the end of 2023.
According to analyses, for every directly employed person in mining, there are four additional indirect jobs, meaning that tens of thousands of families in Serbia depend on the mining industry.
It adds that geological research is a long and complex process, and opening a metallic mineral mine typically takes an average of five to ten years. From the start of exploration to first production, it generally takes 15 to 20 years.
“When we talk about lithium exploration, Serbia currently has one active exploration project, but exploration work is not being conducted. However, the path from exploration to exploitation is long. Exploration alone does not mean immediate exploitation,” the statement concludes.
Protests against lithium mining are currently being organized in several cities in Serbia.
