The Network of Academic Solidarity and Engagement (MASA) protests against the practice of continuous reckoning of the ruling regime with representatives of various professions. This practice is typical of the autocratic regimes that, according to many eyewitnesses and experts, have been established in Serbia in recent years. By dealing with groups and individuals who take a critical stance on any social issue, the autocratic regime sends a message that one should remain silent and do their job without question and despite the risks, incompetence or poor organization. There is no one to protect those who dare to criticize, and with the example of unscrupulous retaliation against them, the regime instills fear in others who think they have the right to publicly express their opinion.
Today, we look in awe at the professional individuals who point to the current health situation with Covid-19, but at the same time we are also wondering about their fate. Were the doctors from Belgrade, Niš, Novi Pazar and other cities wrong when they publicly expressed their opinion and pointed out the problems they directly encountered during the epidemic? Are they brave or do they make unnecessary sacrifices? How long will we tolerate political decisions that further collapse the entire social system?
We invite all colleagues to show solidarity with endangered doctors at every opportunity and in every place, because tomorrow each of us can be on that list. If there is no collegiality and respect for the truth expressed or the attitude shown in public, the regime can attack every individual without mercy. We are witnessing the changes of top doctors who raised their voices to point out shortcomings. In a democratic order, pointing out failures, mistakes and shortcomings leads to the improvement of policies, institutions and practices. The Network of Academic Solidarity and Engagement (MASA) therefore gives full support to the doctors who treated us, are treating us and will treat us to stay in the country and persevere in what they started through United Against Covid.
