Bern Convention

Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats

This complaint concerns the development of the Gradina S4 hydropower plant in Serbia, which could cause significant harm to the Golija UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, a candidate Emerald site, and its protected habitats and species. 

The complainants are warning against the construction of the hydropower plant because it would affect many species listed in the Appendices of the Bern Convention and the Annexes of the EU Habitats and Birds Directives. As the first biosphere reserve in Serbia, Golija is an important area for biodiversity, hosting many protected species and habitats. These are at risk of degradation, fragmentation and destruction due to the new construction.

Although an Environmental Impact Assessment is under discussion, its implementation has yet to be confirmed. Multiple NGOs have signed petitions, but no meeting has been organised to discuss these issues.  

 Key Timeline

• 2025 - Case registration

 Other countries possibly concerned

• N/A

 Other international organisations involved

• N/A

 Documents

Complaint form

Regular reports to the Bureau and/or Standing Committee

Please note that all reports received by a Party during one calendar year are included in one single report for that year. Some older reports are not available in digital form.

Other information / documents