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2mo ago

Serbian Students Lead Nationwide Protests Against Corruption and Government Accountability

Mass demonstrations, sparked by a deadly infrastructure collapse, challenge President Vucic's decade-long rule and demand systemic reforms.

A street vendor sells flowers during the International Women's Day in Belgrade, Serbia, Saturday, March 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
A group of students (The Students 2.0 group) set up a camp in front of the Serbian Presidency building and demanding a return to classes, in Belgrade, Serbia, Friday, March 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
A group of students (The Students 2.0 group) set up a camp in front of the Serbian Presidency building and demanding a return to classes, in Belgrade, Serbia, Friday, March 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
Students and citizens march to protest the deaths of 15 people killed in the November collapse of a train station canopy in Belgrade, Serbia, Friday, March 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Overview

  • Protests began after the November 2024 collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad, which killed 15 people and highlighted alleged government corruption in infrastructure projects.
  • University students have led the movement, organizing daily rallies, blockades, and strikes, with tens of thousands participating across the country.
  • Demonstrators demand the release of investigation documents, prosecution of those responsible for the disaster, and increased funding for education, but the government has yet to meet these demands.
  • President Aleksandar Vucic has dismissed the protests as a Western-backed effort to undermine his leadership, while protesters accuse his administration of stifling democratic freedoms and fostering corruption.
  • A major rally is planned for March 15 in Belgrade, with the movement gaining momentum as citizens, businesses, and civic groups increasingly support the call for systemic change.