Tens of thousands of students demand justice in Serbia after deadly train station collapse
- A significant collapse at the Novi Sad train station on November 1, 2024, led to 15 deaths, igniting public outrage.
- Students in Serbia have been actively protesting, demanding accountability for the tragedy and broader anti-corruption reforms.
- This movement has evolved into a major challenge to the current government, with tens of thousands participating in marches and demonstrations.
In Serbia, a significant protest movement has emerged in response to a devastating incident that occurred on November 1, 2024, when the awning of the local train station in Novi Sad collapsed, leading to 15 fatalities. The tragedy has sparked widespread outrage among citizens, particularly students, who blame government corruption and poor oversight in construction contracts for the disaster. The protests have been characterized by significant participation, with tens of thousands of students marching through cities, demanding accountability and reform in a country that has faced persistent issues with graft and nepotism. Following the incident, hundreds of striking students commenced a two-day anti-graft march from the capital, Belgrade, to Novi Sad, where they aimed to blockade three crucial bridges over the River Danube. This protest gained momentum as students received support from local residents who showed solidarity with cheers and offerings of food and refreshments along their route. As they reached their destination, the anger towards officials, particularly President Aleksandar Vucic, became palpable. Protesters accused the government of trying to cover up corruption related to the construction project that ultimately led to the station collapse. The situation intensified after the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, announced on January 28, 2025, due to the growing pressure from these protests. However, student leaders declared that such actions were insufficient; they demanded more robust measures to ensure accountability for those responsible for the tragedy. The protests represent a broader dissatisfaction with the leadership in Serbia, emphasizing a need for substantive changes to combat corruption. Students are now determined to push for their demands, emphasizing the importance of collective action in pursuit of justice. Their struggle is reminiscent of past movements in Serbia, which have historically led to significant political change. As they continue to mobilize, many express hope for a brighter future while facing opposition from pro-government groups who have resorted to violence against peaceful demonstrators. The environment in Serbia remains charged, and the outcome of this protest movement could have lasting implications for the political landscape and governance in the country.