The Serbian ‘lithium deal’: A talk about the disastrous consequences of neo-colonialism powered by german government and car manufacturers.

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Liljana Tomoviç is a professor from the University of Belgrade with decades of experience. As her research takes place primarily in the midst of nature, she has a very deep insight into the changes that climate change is already having on the country.

Aleksandar Matković is a member of the „Green-Left Front“, the main left-wing opposition party in the Serbian parliament, where he helps shape the party’s new economic policy. As a researcher he turned into a political activist with questioning the dependency of his country regarding Chinese corporates and got death threats after questioning lithium mining in Serbia. Read his Open letter regarding Rio Tinto and the “mining colony that Serbia is turning into”.

In this episode of my podcast, we talk about the very specific effects that the planned mining deal, which in Germany is primarily based on the lithium requirements of car manufacturers, will have on people in Serbia, from environmental destruction to displacement. We talk about state violence, which hundreds of thousands of people in the country refuse to be intimidated by because they are afraid of a future in which their country can no longer be worth living in because it has been exploited in a neo-colonialist manner. In July of this year, Belgrade gave the green light for lithium extraction, having temporarily halted it two years previously following pressure from environmentalists.

Germany needs lithium, especially in the automotive industry. Germany consumes more metal than many of its neighbouring countries, a third of which is used by the automotive industry. This means that Germany’s consumption of raw materials is far above a globally fair level.

In the interview, we explain that instead of aggressively securing access to critical metals, it would be important to reduce the overall demand for raw materials, emphasises Reckordt. Above all, this would mean building smaller and fewer cars, initiating a turnaround in transport that reduces dependence on cars, recycling raw materials and drastically reducing energy consumption in industry. As a consequence, this would mean carrying out a real green transformation and actually reorganising the economy in a climate-neutral and ecological way instead of creating rebound effects and shifting environmental and human rights problems abroad. This does not go hand in hand with Germany’s self-image as a growing export and leading automotive and industrial nation.

For those of you who understand German, I also recommend the previous episode that I recorded with Hannah from Powershift. Here we shed light on the almost 100 per cent metal dependency of Germany (and the German automotive industry) on neo-colonial business relationships with countries in the Global South.

Serbia Protests, Mining Project, and Environmental Concerns

Aleksandar discussed the escalating protests in Serbia due to changing laws allowing mining operations. He shared his involvement in internationalizing the struggle, establishing an ecological organization, and signing a declaration of international solidarity. He also mentioned receiving death threats after criticizing the economic aspects of the mine. Katja added that a protest group member was sentenced to two years in jail, further intimidating protesters. Aleksandar discussed the potential lithium mining project in Serbia, highlighting its potential environmental and social impacts. Ljiljana emphasized the importance of the region’s unique landscape for the survival of many populations in Serbia. Both agreed that the project poses a complex problem with various economic, social, and environmental risks.

Environmental Protests and Lack of Official Support

Ljiljana expressed her concern and sadness over the lack of official support and understanding from their country and some Western countries regarding a multi-level problem. Katja then discussed the situation in Germany, where there was a lack of awareness and action against a similar issue. Aleksandar shared his perspective on the situation in Serbia, highlighting the large-scale environmental protests that have been building up for years. He explained that the protests were not limited to one issue, but were a response to various environmental concerns, including air quality, privatization programs, and foreign direct investments. The protests gained momentum when the Rio Tinto project was realized to have significant impacts on the environment and the political landscape. Aleksandar also mentioned the use of social networks to spread information quickly.

Green Colonialism and Lithium Mining Implications

Aleksandar and Ljiljana discussed the international implications of the growing demand for lithium and other critical minerals. They argued that this trend, driven by multinational corporations and the German car industry, represents a form of „green colonialism“ that threatens the environment and the way of life in peripheral countries. They also highlighted the potential for widespread mining in Serbia and the Balkans, which could lead to the destruction of natural habitats and ecosystems. Ljiljana emphasized that lithium is not a sustainable solution for energy production, as it is primarily used in batteries, and that alternative solutions should be explored to ensure survival.

Environmental Impact of Mining and Activism

Ljiljana expresses that while most people are unaware of the environmental impact of mining, some activist groups are starting to recognize the need to reduce consumerism and transition to sustainable practices. Scientists have been warning governments about climate change for decades, but capitalist interests have impeded progress. Aleksandar recounts being labeled an „eco-terrorist“ by a pro-mining group after questioning the economic viability of a mine, facing threats, and protests arising from the harassment of activists and scientists critical of mining projects.

State List Challenges and Economic Impacts

Aleksandar and Katja discussed the challenges and impacts of being on a state list, which Katja described as a negative experience. Aleksandar shared his experiences of receiving mass support from public figures and intellectuals, which helped him cope with the situation. They also discussed the economic implications of the mine’s operation, with Aleksandar expressing concerns about the environmental degradation and the potential for Serbia to become a mining colony. He emphasized the need to reduce demand to avoid human rights abuses and the exploitation of nature in the peripheries.

Environmental Impact of Mining and Ecosystems

Katja and Ljiljana discussed the long-term effects of mining on the environment and ecosystems. Ljiljana, a biologist, explained that ecosystems take thousands of years to evolve and cannot be reversed after mining activities. She also highlighted the domino effect of mining, which could lead to the destruction of nature, water reservoirs, and agricultural fields. Ljiljana emphasized that people in power are not considering the future generations and are gambling with their destiny. She also warned about the potential for mass migrations from affected regions to economically developed countries, which could lead to a reduction in the quality of life in these countries. Ljiljana concluded by stating that they are fighting for the preservation of nature and other creatures, despite being labeled as eco-terrorists.

Mining Project Challenges and Environmental Concerns

Katja and Aleksandar discussed the potential profits and challenges of a mining project in Germany, highlighting the significant profits for corporations but also the social and environmental costs. They criticized the European Commission’s close ties with corporate lobbyists and the potential for unequal treatment among nations. They also discussed the need for diversification of materials, a reduction in demand, and better public transport in Germany. Ljiljana shared her concerns about the impact of human activities on nature and populations, and the issue of corruption in preserving natural habitats. She also mentioned the solidarity among activist organizations from different regions facing similar problems with lithium and other mines. The group agreed on the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in their respective fights.

Addressing Disconnects and Advocating for Change

Ljiljana expressed concerns about the disconnect between environmental ideals and realities faced by communities impacted by issues like mining. Katja agreed, emphasizing the importance of connecting with others beyond individual actions. They discussed the interconnectedness of economy and ecology, with Ljiljana stressing these aspects should not be separated. Katja shared her desire to help people speak out against injustice. Ljiljana provided observations on current affairs in Serbia and the Balkans, comparing them to China and Russia. They highlighted the role of information and media in shaping public opinion. Katja mentioned her advocacy work amplifying people’s stories. The conversation ended with Katja offering to share a podcast link featuring Carola Rackete and the left party.