Citizens across the Balkans are hitting the shops where it hurts, launching a major boycott in response to skyrocketing prices. The movement, which began in Croatia, has spread rapidly to North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
Protesters are furious that while food and energy prices surge, wages remain stagnant. The boycott, which started on social media, aims to send a clear message to governments and retailers about the cost of living crisis.
In North Macedonia, Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has expressed sympathy, promising tighter regulations and tougher penalties for price-gouging businesses.
In Serbia, the Consumer Protection Association “Efektiva” warns that Serbian citizens are paying much more than their European counterparts for essential goods.
Meanwhile, in Montenegro, the “Alternative” movement has called for a full boycott of all supermarkets, arguing that high prices are hitting everyone hard.
The protest has also reached Bosnia and Herzegovina, where not only retail stores but also gas stations, bakeries, and cafés are being targeted. In Slovenia, the boycott will continue until February 2, with plans to extend until February 9.
This growing wave of action highlights the mounting dissatisfaction across the region as citizens demand more affordable living conditions.
