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.
- 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.