Tens of thousands of students gathered in the central Serbian city of Kragujevac on Saturday, marking the largest demonstration yet against the government following a deadly railway disaster in November. The protests, fueled by widespread anger over corruption and negligence, have become Serbia’s most significant anti-government movement in years, posing a serious challenge to populist President Aleksandar Vucic’s decade-long rule.
Novi Sad Train Station Collapse Leads to Nationwide Outrage
The protests were triggered by the tragic collapse of a newly-renovated train station roof in Novi Sad three months ago, which killed 15 people. The incident has been since been attributed to corruption and poor governance, with many Serbians accusing the government of failing to ensure public safety.
Students Lead the Charge Against Corruption in Serbia
On Saturday, students from across Serbia descended on Kragujevac, braving near-freezing temperatures. Many traveled by bus, while others walked 140 kilometers from Belgrade, beating drums, blowing whistles, and waving Serbian flags. Locals welcomed the protesters with cheers and homemade pies, offering hot tea to keep them warm.
The demonstrators blocked one of the city’s main boulevards for 15 hours and 15 minutes, a symbolic gesture honoring the 15 victims of the Novi Sad tragedy. A 15-minute silence was also observed to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.
Public Support Grows as Protests Gain Momentum
The student-led protests have garnered widespread support from teachers, farmers, and workers, reflecting growing public dissatisfaction with the government. Many Serbians blame the Novi Sad disaster on systemic corruption and nepotism within President Vucic’s administration, allegations that authorities continue to deny.
Verica, a 52-year-old professor from Kragujevac, joined the protest with her teenage daughter. “I have not been so happy and proud for a long time,” she said. “I am proud of their persistence.”
In response to the protests, Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and two other ministers resigned, while prosecutors charged 13 individuals in connection with the Novi Sad disaster. However, these measures have done little to appease the public, with daily protests continuing across the country.
Students have taken over university buildings, blocked highways, and occupied public squares, demanding accountability and justice.
The Main Demands of the Protesters
The protesters outlined four key demands, namely:
- The publication of all documents related to the Novi Sad train station roof collapse.
- Justice for those responsible for the tragedy.
- The dismissal of charges against students involved in protests.
- Increased funding for higher education in Serbia.
