Saving Nature from Gold Mine and Cyanide
Located in the mountainous region of eastern Serbia, Homolje is one of Europe’s very few remaining areas of wilderness. As a part of Carpathian Mountains, it is renowned for its pristine beauty, abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear waters.
Gold Mine & Cyanide Threat
In December 2021, the Canadian company Dundee Precious Metals announced their plans to open a gold mine in Homolje using surface extraction techniques involving cyanide.
This is our mission
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The rule of low
In any country that upholds the rule of low. mining is strictly controlled and regulated.
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to inspire, unite and empower comunity
To stand up against the harmful and secret contracts our government makes with foreign companies
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What we need to do,
is to bring back nature and restore the natural balance.
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A strong communication approach
Through the power of communication, we inspire, educate and empower comunity
Who we are
We are locals who were fortunate to grow up surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of the Homolje area.
We understand the privilege of living in such an unspoiled natural environment and are determined to prevent gold mining from invading upon this precious land
Some of us continue to make a living through traditional farming practices passed down by our ancestors, while others, who have pursued careers abroad, are now leveraging their online networks
and international connections to fight against this environmental threat and raise funds.
Each one of us plans to remain or return to this area, as there is truly no place like home, especially when it is nestled in pristine nature.
What have we done so far?
As civil rights advocates, we have been proactive in defending our cause. Here are some of our accomplishments:
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We have collaborated with the University of Belgrade to host lectures on the issue
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Scientific research has been conducted to gather more data on endangered species in the area.
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Protests have been organized in Žagubica and Petrovac na Mlavi, towns directly threatened by mining development.
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We have established partnerships with domestic and international organizations, including SEOS, Nu Dau, Borani se pitaju (local groups fighting against lithium extraction in Jadar Valley by Rio Tinto and ZiDjin mining company in Bor and Majdanpek, Serbia), Mining Watch Canada, Mining Injustice Solidarity Network, and communities in Cuenca, Ecuador facing similar challenges posed by Dundee Precious Metals.
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In December 2021, Serbian scientists launched a petition to halt mining in Homolje
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We regularly disseminate information through printed bulletins and social media to keep citizens informed about our ongoing fight.
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Our legal actions, both domestically and internationally, have gained momentum. In collaboration with Earth Thrive, our international partner, we have logged a complaint with the Bureau of the Bern Convention – the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. The Standing Committee has accepted our Complaint as valid and the case is currently on standby, ready to be opened pending further activities on the ground.
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Locally, we have engaged a specialized law firm with expertise in combating environmental corruption in Serbia. To date, we have initiated eight legal claims.