Abstract: This paper unveils the Trotskyist-Lambertist cell formation in Yugoslavia and the key role played by Yugoslav Trotskyists. It establishes their pre-1972 existence and active involvement in the actions leading to the 1972 conviction of three Belgrade students. This pioneering historiographical research sheds new light on post-1968 Belgrade student movement dynamics. Beyond uncovering hitherto unnoticed resistance to the communist regime, this study argues for social history approach, emphasizing activist perspectives, and innovative sources drawn from French archives, private collections, and oral history. The findings offer a nuanced comprehension of the regime’s repression tactics.

Keywords: Trotskyists, repression, student movement, SFR Yugoslavia, Lambertists, activists, Eastern Europe

Summary

The international Trotskyist movements, in their protracted endeavor to gain a foothold in Eastern European nations, achieved somewhat of a breakthrough in Belgrade aft er the 1968 student demonstrations. The ‘Lambertist’ faction, with its sights set on revitalizing Trotsky’s Fourth International, gave precedence to establishing an international youth organization. This initiative served as the gateway for several Yugoslavs to acquaint themselves with Trotskyism. Lambertists’ initial forays into Yugoslavia involved engaging with the youth and disseminating literature, however, they soon successfully persuaded three individuals to migrate to Paris, where they underwent ideological training and were afterwards occasionally sent back as agents to establish a Trotskyist cell. These Yugoslav Trotskyists functioned within the regional Eastern European sub-organization, dutifully following its directives to advance overarching strategies. Their primary objectives were to recruit Yugoslav comrades for the 1971 international meeting in Essen and to cultivate a core of ideologically committed Trotskyists. A samizdat journal, printed in Paris and clandestinely circulated in Yugoslavia, discussed and attempted to influence the ideas emanating from Belgrade activist circles. Lambertists undertook covert trips, smuggling forbidden literature and cementing bonds with young activists. In due course, they stationed a dedicated member in Belgrade and persuaded others to partake in major international Trotskyist conferences. In 1972, three Belgrade students were arrested and convicted on charges of Trotskyism. While levels of involvement varied, and the trial was tarnished by unfairness, the majority of the accusations were grounded in facts.