Tens of thousands of protesters poured onto the streets of Belgrade on Saturday, March 15, 2025, to voice their frustrations against the government and demand accountability for the tragic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station canopy. With at least 107,000 individuals reported by the Serbian Interior Ministry, this protest is among the largest the city has witnessed, showcasing both the anger simmering beneath the surface of the Serbian political climate and the resolve of the youth leading the movement.
The mass demonstration was ignited by the deaths of 15 people on November 1, 2024, when the roof of the Novi Sad railway station collapsed. This disaster, critics argue, exemplifies the corruption and negligence prevalent under the administration of President Aleksandar Vucic, whose government has faced mounting pressure since the incident.
Protesters, made up of students, farmers, motorcyclists, and military veterans, overwhelmed central streets throughout Belgrade. Many arrived from distant locations, with convoys of cars, tractors, and motorcycles converging upon the city. Defying the rain and humid conditions, they gathered at key locations like the National Assembly and Slavija Square, armed with banners demanding justice and accountability.
Among the demonstrators was law student Jana Vasic, who expressed her hope for change: "We just want a country that's working. We want institutions to do their jobs properly. We don't care what party is in power. But we need a country that's functioning, not one where you don't get justice for more than four months." Such sentiments echoed throughout the crowd as they chanted slogans like “Pump it!” and displayed messages like “He’s Finished,” aimed at Vucic.
Adding to the urgency of the occasion, organizers led attendees through a poignant moment of silence, observed for 15 minutes at 11:52 am, commemoratively marking the lives lost due to the tragedy. During this solemn occasion, military veterans and bikers exhibited their solidarity, many standing together to honor the memory of the victims.
Despite the predominantly peaceful nature of the protest, tensions remained palpable. Vucic's comments leading up to the rally suggested he anticipated attempts to undermine his administration, referring to the demonstrations as possibly orchestrated through what he termed “imported revolution.” Following the protest, Vucic announced there had been 22 arrests and expressed acknowledgment of the sizable turnout, stating, "A surprisingly large number of people came from inside the country." This statement reflects the growing discontent among citizens who feel neglected by their government.
Protesters have been mobilizing for over three months, originating from student-led protests sparked following the Novi Sad disaster. Their demands include the publication of all documentation relating to the renovation of the railway station, prosecution for those responsible for the 15 deaths, the cessation of trials against arrested students during the protests, and increased funding for higher education by 20 percent.
Political ramifications have already begun to surface. The citizens’ outcry led to the resignations of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and numerous other officials. Reflecting on the growing political unrest, Dinko Gruhonjić, a professor and early supporter of the movement, stated, "Fear has changed sides in Serbia," highlighting the seismic shifts in public sentiment against the government.
Vucic has not backed down from his position, asserting during television appearances, "I will not be pressured. I’m the president of Serbia, and I won’t let the streets set the rules in this country." His defiance reinforces the deepening divide between the government and the populace, the latter expressing clarity and purpose against perceived governmental failures.
While at least 16 individuals have been indicted concerning the Novi Sad disaster, including prominent figures such as Goran Vesic, the construction minister at the time, protesters assert these actions are merely initial steps. "We're making progress," remarked one student from Belgrade University, emphasizing the necessity of continued pressure until their comprehensive demands are fully met. "A couple of politicians have resigned from their offices, but they weren't fired. We're yet to see anything but empty promises."
The day’s events culminated with protesters rallying at urban centers across Serbia, confirming widespread dissatisfaction not just limited to students, but encapsulating various sectors of society. Lawmakers have raised fears surrounding the growth of student-led protests, coining terms like “coup” to delegitimize their efforts. Nevertheless, the determination of the demonstrators signifies potential for a movement capable of exerting significant pressure on the government.
The situation remains fluid as protesters continue to vow they will not relent until substantive changes are enacted. With every demonstration, sentiment grows among citizens who believe accountability is not just desired, but absolutely necessary for progress. While Saturday’s dedication to the victims was somber, the energy and resolve displayed by the protesters are indicative of collective hope for reform.
Clearly, the outcry from Belgrade signifies more than just the aftermath of one catastrophic incident; it reflects the fervent desire for government accountability and responsible governance, echoing through the streets as fervently as the chants demanding fundamental change.