Tensions escalate as Serbia braces for major anti-government rally

On March 15, 2025, Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, was on high alert as thousands gathered for a significant anti-government rally amidst rising tensions. The protest was the culmination of a series of anti-corruption demonstrations that had been ongoing for months throughout the country. Participants included students who marched or cycled from various regions to join the rally, which was aimed at expressing discontent towards the ruling government led by President Aleksandar Vucic. Event organizers and activists framed the occasion as a vital opportunity to confront issues associated with governance, corruption, and a lack of democratic freedoms. Security concerns mounted as President Vucic had warned of potential violence at the event, suggesting that unrest was planned. Claiming that foreign intelligence agencies orchestrated these protests, he threatened arrests for any incidents occurring during the demonstration. The atmosphere grew tense as he pointed out that his supporters, including former paramilitary members and soccer hooligans, had gathered in the city center, raising fears of violent clashes with the protesters. As the day progressed, public transport in Belgrade was halted to prevent attendees from reaching the rally site. The government's drastic measures included stopping intercity rail travel in response to an alleged bomb scare, which served to frustrate anti-government sentiments that had been steadily building since a tragic accident months earlier that had resulted in numerous deaths and public outcry over government negligence. The protests, primarily led by students, were viewed as a significant challenge to Vucic's prolonged grip on power. He adamantly resisted calls for a transitional government or early elections, stating his willingness to step down only through extreme means. Despite government efforts to suppress attendance and instill fear, tens of thousands of citizens, buoyed by a sense of solidarity, mobilized together for the rally in hopes of prompting substantial political change.