On March 15, 2025, tens of thousands of people converged on Belgrade for what has been described as the largest anti-corruption protest in Serbia's history. This demonstration stands as the culmination of months of unrest following the tragic death of 15 individuals due to the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad.
With their hashtag-driven banners and firm chants echoing throughout the city, the citizens of Serbia are demanding accountability. The protests began nearly four months ago after the November 1 disaster, which many attribute to government negligence and corruption, awakening the public's discontent against the long-standing administration of President Aleksandar Vucic.
Gatherings were reported at multiple locations throughout the city, particularly near the Serbian parliament, where protesters congregated prior to the planned main action at 16:00 local time. The street ambience was electric, filled with the clattering of drums, the blowing of vuvuzelas, and the unwavering chants for justice from the crowd. Government estimates put the crowd size at over 107,000, significantly surmounting earlier predictions, capturing the overwhelming frustration of the populace.
Vucic had declared the protest illegal just the day prior, vowing to maintain order and issuing threats of arrest to potential troublemakers. Nevertheless, as the students and supportive citizens unified their voices against state corruption, feelings of optimism circulated among the gathering.
"This is only the beginning of the end, a process I hope will conclude soon," remarked Dejan Simic, one of the protesters, encapsulating the sentiment of many aimed at reshaping their nation's future. His words resonate closely with the claims made by other participants, asserting their desire for justice and change.
Significantly, the protests have garnered substantial involvement from various demographics: students have spearheaded this movement yet they are supported by professors, farmers, and everyday citizens firmly believing the government must take responsibility for the fatal incidents. Farmers, many of whom drove their tractors to the protest, symbolically stood against the political machinery they believe has failed them.
Amongst the masses, demonstrators carried placards decrying the corruption within the government, with sentiments such as, "The people bring sovereignty," echoing the demands for transparency and accountability. Such displays encapsulate the growing urgency among Serbia's youth who now lead the charge against their leaders.
Authorities reacted preemptively by cancelling public transport across the capital, attempting to limit movement toward the protest sites. This decision proved futile as thousands made their way to Belgrade, either walking great distances or cycling from surrounding cities. Many local residents cheered them on, waving Serbian flags as they’d march.
On the night before the main event, Minister of Internal Affairs, Ivica Dacic, reported some disturbances, including the detention of 13 individuals for various offenses, including violence linked to pro-Vucic supporters. These activities underline not only the division within Serbian society but also the potential volatility surrounding this growing dissent.
Witness reports indicated disruptiveness arose as specific supporters of Vucic established their camp across from the protests, creating heightened tensions. The indiscriminate clashes between opposing groups, including clashes wherein vehicles collided with protesters, contributed to the already fraught atmosphere.
Despite the odds, the protesters exhibited resolve. The organizers note their commitment to not back down until their calls for accountability are answered. "I expect this to shake his authority and Vucic to understand people are no longer behind him," proclaimed Milenko Kovacevic, one of the many voices rallying for change.
At the root of the protests traces back to the tragedy of November 1st, forcing many to confront the realities of negligence and corruption within their government, leading to the demand for thorough investigations and honest dialogues about the accountability of officials involved.
With each passing demonstration, the fervor only intensifies amid the backdrop of what could herald serious political shifts within Serbia. President Vucic’s position appears increasingly precarious, particularly as he claims foreign interference drives the protests—allegations he has made without presenting any substantial evidence.
From the steps of the Serbian parliament to the far reaches of every city, voices grow louder. This is no longer merely about the objections against government policies; this is about justice, accountability, and the citizens’ will—historically inching toward reclaiming their rights.
The events of March 15th will not only be etched within the memory of Serbia but also serve as fundamental turning points for citizens united against corruption. Here lies the possibility of true change; consequences remain uncertain, but the people are resolute.