Belgrade, Serbia - A driver rammed their car through a silent protest on Friday, injuring two women, marking the third such incident to occur within weeks. The attack occurred during the nationwide observance of silence for victims of earlier infrastructure failures, which has fueled public unrest against the government.
The most recent incident unfolded downtown when the vehicle barreled forward, injuring two women who work as doctors at a nearby psychiatric institution. Witnesses stated the driver initially reversed but then accelerated, surprising and endangering the assembled protesters. Dr. Elena Matkovic, who was present during the attack, expressed disbelief over the violent act: “We really did not expect him to drive through a crowd of people,” she recounted. “If you are asking me whether we will stop (the blockades), we most certainly will not. This is not the moment to stop.”
This attack coincides with widespread protests led by students against corruption, particularly following the tragic collapse of construction at Novi Sad’s railway station on November 1, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people. The protests, which began two months ago, have evolved from calls for accountability over construction negligence to broader demands for governmental reform and integrity. Hundreds of students marched toward Novi Sad to demonstrate their dispersal, intending to blockade three significant bridges over the River Danube this weekend.
Participants have enjoyed local support, with citizens applauding their march by offering food and beverages. Student marcher Nevena Vecerinac emphasized the importance of community backing: “We need support from all people. With this energy and mood I hope we can do it, otherwise there will be no brighter future.”
The frustration among demonstrators has grown as it increasingly aligns with the government’s perceived dishonesty, particularly surrounding its partnerships with Chinese state companies involved with infrastructure projects. Critics argue governmental graft led to the horrific failure at the Novi Sad railway station, citing poor oversight and safety violations.
While strikers and other protest groups have been met with intermittent violence from motorists, police have been primarily focused on maintaining order. Two earlier incidents of motorists driving through similar protests resulted in serious injuries, yet the protesters remain resolute. Despite such challenges, the larger demonstrations have already forced the resignation of Serbia’s Prime Minister, Milos Vucevic, earlier this week, indicating significant political shifts as protesters persist.
Protesters argue for accountability for those responsible for the railway tragedy and demand significant reforms to prevent such corruption from impacting public safety again. Luka Arsenovic, another student leading the protest, stated, “We will make it to Novi Sad,” highlighting the group’s sense of unity and purpose. “Yesterday’s walk was easy. It’s cold now, but we can make it. We all have the same goal.”
President Aleksandar Vucic has had to navigate these burgeoning protests delicately. He previously accused demonstrators of receiving foreign backing to destabilize his government but has recently shifted to engaging with them more openly. On Friday, Vucic remarked, “It is clear the country is under attack both from the outside and from the inside,” showcasing his concern over the protests and the potential threat they pose to his leadership. Alongside creating excuses for the tragedies, he also promised to seek dialogue with demonstrators, stressing the importance of stability for Serbia.
The political unrest and protests have ignited debates about the youth of Serbia, with many young individuals choosing to leave the country for stability and opportunities elsewhere. The fervor of the current demonstrations has been somewhat unanticipated, showcasing the underlying frustration among younger generations about the country's direction, governance, and economic limitations.
Efforts to engage with the opposition and protest groups may signify the government’s recognition of the serious challenges posed by widespread discontent. With demonstrations continuing to grow, local observers are left to ponder the potential outcomes of this unrest and whether it will lead to significant reforms or merely witness the government’s half-hearted attempts to appease demonstrators.
The protesting students and their supporters remain undeterred, projecting resolve as they continue to call for systemic changes to combat government corruption and improve the safety of public infrastructures across Serbia. Their determination might pave the way for not only greater accountability but possibly visibility and change required for the youth's future.