Vucic promises to meet protesters' demands after train station tragedy

In Serbia, following a tragic train station incident that occurred in Novi Sad on November 1, 2023, public unrest escalated as students protested against the government's accountability regarding the disaster. The accident involved the collapse of a recently renovated awning at the station, resulting in 14 fatalities and three injuries, which later included one more death due to injuries sustained. The widespread protests emerged from the students’ outrage over perceived government negligence, corruption, and involvement in poor construction practices linked to the station's renovation. In a bid to address the growing discontent, President Aleksandar Vucic held a press conference where he committed to fulfilling the protesters' demands. These demands encompassed the public release of documents pertaining to the station’s reconstruction, as well as the release of arrested demonstrators. Vucic's promises signified a notable shift in his response to opposition, marking the first occasion he conceded to protesters since he assumed political office as deputy prime minister in 2012. During his announcement, Vucic emphasized that all relevant documentation would be made public the following day. He asserted the importance of accountability for those responsible for the disaster, while asserting the ruling coalition's position against allegations of misconduct. His remarks came in the wake of ongoing protests, with student activists vocally expressing their dissatisfaction over his administration's previous handling of the disaster and demanding resignations from those they hold accountable. The opposition has criticized the government's management of the legal processes related to the incident, claiming significant deficiencies in the way documentation is being handled. Leaders from opposition parties such as the Kreni-Promeni movement have been vocal on social media, denouncing the current state of governance as a breakdown of authority. Despite Vucic's proposals, many protesters remained skeptical and continued to voice their discontent, pledging that demonstrations would persist until their broader demands, including the apprehension of individuals involved in violent altercations during protests, were met.