Court Rules Vesna Bratić Not Liable for Dismissed School Directors

A court ruling has declared that former Minister of Education Vesna Bratić is not liable for damages related to the dismissal of approximately 40 school directors. These individuals had successfully challenged their removal, arguing that it was executed unlawfully. The decision, which is available to the media, stated that the state’s lawsuit against Bratić, seeking compensation for her actions, was dismissed.

The ruling specifies that Bratić will not have to pay damages exceeding €18,000. The case was brought forth by the property rights protector, who indicated plans to appeal the initial ruling to the Higher Court. Following this, the case will undergo further examination by the judicial system.

In the meantime, the property rights protector has initiated two additional lawsuits against Bratić in the Basic Court, where they seek accountability for the dismissal of around 100 directors.

During her tenure in 2021, Bratić removed more than 140 school directors, alleging they failed to comply with regulations, particularly regarding the establishment of school boards. However, those removed successfully proved in court that they were obstructed from forming these bodies due to the Ministry’s failure to propose its representatives for the boards.

Recent reports indicate that more than €280,000 has been disbursed to the dismissed directors as compensation. This development highlights ongoing tensions between educational authorities and the Ministry of Education, raising questions about governance and accountability in the sector.

The outcome of the appeal and the additional lawsuits will be closely monitored, as they may set significant precedents regarding the authority of educational officials and the legal protections for public servants in similar situations.