Over 100,000 people gathered in Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, participating in one of the largest demonstrations in the country’s recent history. The protestors demanded transparency and accountability following the collapse of the Novi Sad railway station roof in November, which resulted in the tragic loss of 15 lives. The demonstrators, comprised mostly of students, educators, farmers, and everyday citizens, converged on the city after marching from various parts of the country, including notable places such as Subotica and Novi Sad.
The event follows a longstanding call for justice, with participants urging the government to publish all documentation related to the incident, prosecute those responsible, and halt the legal action against students apprehended during previous protests. Additionally, they are advocating for an increase in the education budget as part of their demands. The mass protest is seen as a direct response to widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling Serbian Progressive Party and President Aleksandar Vučić, who is widely criticized for his authoritarian governance.
In anticipation of the protests, President Vučić attempted to placate the nation’s security forces by announcing a pay raise for employees within the Interior Ministry. This move, perceived as an attempt to secure their loyalty, came shortly before he publicly declared intentions to impose strict penalties on those engaged in violent actions.
Since the deadly collapse, the legal process has seen thirteen arrests, which include a former government minister. While the authorities deny claims of corruption and low-quality construction leading to the disaster, these allegations persist among the protestors and opposition leaders. The incident has already led to significant political repercussions, including the Prime Minister’s resignation.
This swelling unrest is compounded by broader governmental criticisms, such as allegations related to misuse of surveillance technologies and purported affiliations with criminal elements. These factors have fueled public protestations and calls for a shift in governance, building on a growing wave of public disillusionment with the nation’s current political trajectory.