In a historic mobilization, over 325,000 individuals rallied in Belgrade to express their outrage over the government’s negligence linked to the fatal collapse of a railway station roof that claimed 15 lives.
Serbia's Largest Protest in History: 325,000 Rally for Justice
Serbia's Largest Protest in History: 325,000 Rally for Justice
A massive outcry in Belgrade as citizens demand accountability following a tragic railway station collapse.
Serbia witnessed its largest-ever protest on Saturday as citizens took to the streets of Belgrade, fueled by grief and anger over the tragic deaths resulting from the roof collapse at Novi Sad railway station, which occurred last November. Estimates from the Public Meeting Archive suggest attendance ranged between 275,000 and 325,000, dwarfing the government's claim of 107,000 participants. This monumental gathering symbolizes the growing discontent with President Aleksandar Vucic’s leadership and the Progressive Party’s long-standing governance.
The devastating incident at the station has ignited a fierce backlash against the government, with demonstrators attributing the catastrophe to systemic corruption and inadequate safety measures. Many protesters believe the tragedy is emblematic of a decade's mismanagement under Vucic, who recently oversaw the station's renovation.
In a response to the swelling tide of dissent, President Vucic publicly commended the police for maintaining peace during the protests, asserting that he empathizes with the message of the demonstrators. Despite acknowledging the need for change, he remains firm in his position, indicating no intention to step down.
The protest, dubbed "15th for 15" in tribute to the victims, unfolded across four major locations in Belgrade, with Republic Square serving as a central hub. Protesters collectively honored the deceased by illuminating their mobile phone lights for 15 minutes, a poignant tribute to the lives lost.
The protest cohort has expanded beyond students, including a diverse spectrum of society—farmers, taxi drivers, and military veterans united in a shared demand for accountability and justice. Numerous groups have come together, with students at the forefront calling for transparency concerning the documents related to the renovation and for criminal charges against those responsible to be prosecuted.
Although some political figures have resigned amid the escalating demands for change, the protesters remain skeptical of the government’s promises, citing a lack of meaningful progress and accountability. Civil unrest shows no signs of abating, with students pledging to continue their fight for answers regarding the Novi Sad disaster.
The response from Vucic’s administration has been marked by tension, describing opposition leaders as part of a “criminal cartel” while rejecting calls for an interim government. As sentiments intensify, the message from the streets of Belgrade is clear: the community demands justice, transparency, and lasting reforms to restore faith in the country's institutions.
The stakes remain high as students, activists, and citizens from all walks of life vow to persist in their quest for accountability, determined to hold their leaders responsible for past failures.
The devastating incident at the station has ignited a fierce backlash against the government, with demonstrators attributing the catastrophe to systemic corruption and inadequate safety measures. Many protesters believe the tragedy is emblematic of a decade's mismanagement under Vucic, who recently oversaw the station's renovation.
In a response to the swelling tide of dissent, President Vucic publicly commended the police for maintaining peace during the protests, asserting that he empathizes with the message of the demonstrators. Despite acknowledging the need for change, he remains firm in his position, indicating no intention to step down.
The protest, dubbed "15th for 15" in tribute to the victims, unfolded across four major locations in Belgrade, with Republic Square serving as a central hub. Protesters collectively honored the deceased by illuminating their mobile phone lights for 15 minutes, a poignant tribute to the lives lost.
The protest cohort has expanded beyond students, including a diverse spectrum of society—farmers, taxi drivers, and military veterans united in a shared demand for accountability and justice. Numerous groups have come together, with students at the forefront calling for transparency concerning the documents related to the renovation and for criminal charges against those responsible to be prosecuted.
Although some political figures have resigned amid the escalating demands for change, the protesters remain skeptical of the government’s promises, citing a lack of meaningful progress and accountability. Civil unrest shows no signs of abating, with students pledging to continue their fight for answers regarding the Novi Sad disaster.
The response from Vucic’s administration has been marked by tension, describing opposition leaders as part of a “criminal cartel” while rejecting calls for an interim government. As sentiments intensify, the message from the streets of Belgrade is clear: the community demands justice, transparency, and lasting reforms to restore faith in the country's institutions.
The stakes remain high as students, activists, and citizens from all walks of life vow to persist in their quest for accountability, determined to hold their leaders responsible for past failures.
