Massive Protests in Serbia Call for Accountability and Reform

Serbia witnessed its largest-ever protest, as an estimated 325,000 citizens gathered to demand justice and transparency from the government in response to the tragic deaths from the Novi Sad railway station collapse.

Hundreds of thousands of protesters converged on Belgrade’s Republic Square on Saturday, marking what has been described as the largest rally in Serbia's history, driven by grief and anger over the tragic deaths of 15 individuals in a railway station collapse last November. While the government reported attendance at just 107,000, independent observers estimated the gathering at between 275,000 and 325,000, potentially even higher.

Protesters held President Aleksandar Vucic accountable for what they consider issues of government corruption and negligence that contributed to the disaster. Vucic, who had closely associated himself with the renovation of the station, addressed the nation during the protest, praising the police for maintaining order and acknowledging the protesters' sentiments, stating, "we will have to change ourselves." Nevertheless, he reaffirmed that he has no intentions of stepping down despite the continual call for change.

Jana Vasic, a law student participating in the protest, articulated the collective demand for a functional government and a system that delivers justice. "We just want a country that works," she declared, echoing the sentiments shared among thousands of demonstrators who packed not only Republic Square but also the National Museum and surrounding areas.

Offering a poignant tribute, protesters held up mobile phone lights for 15 minutes to honor the victims of the Novi Sad station roof collapse. Reports indicated that 22 individuals were arrested and around 56 others injured amidst the protests, which saw initial participation from students expanding to include taxi drivers, farmers, and lawyers.

Demands from the protesters extend beyond public accountability; they seek full transparency concerning the renovation of the station, which was overseen by the government and reopened just last year. Despite multiple resignations from key political figures, including Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, many current protesters remain dissatisfied, insisting that reforms have yet to be enacted fully.

Prosecutors have indicted at least 16 individuals in connection to the collapse, including former construction minister Goran Vesic. However, students and citizens alike express frustration over the slow judicial process in obtaining justice.

The protests signify not only grief over lost lives but a broader demand for systemic change in Serbia. Opposition leader Borko Stefanovic acknowledged the government of experts concept being pursued by some media factions, but students maintain their demands focus on establishing truth and accountability surrounding the collapse.

As the "15th for 15" protest unfolded, the persistent drive for accountability amongst the students and their allies reflected a deeper yearning for the rule of law, respect for constitutional values, and responsible public governance—roots of dissatisfaction unlikely to be quelled without genuine action from the authorities.