Hundreds of students across Serbia have taken to the streets to march toward Novi Sad, protesting against what they describe as rampant corruption linked to the tragic collapse of the train station roof on November 1, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people. This protest has gained momentum as students from the University of Belgrade and beyond unite for change, planning to blockade three bridges over the River Danube this weekend.
The students, fueled by outrage over the government's perceived failure to hold responsible parties accountable, began their 80-kilometer (50-mile) trek from Belgrade to Novi Sad on January 31, 2024. The march is not only commemorative, marking three months since the deadly collapse, but it is also aimed at demanding systemic reform and justice. One student, Nevena Vecerinac, expressed her resolve, stating, "We will make it to Novi Sad. Yesterday’s walk was easy. It's cold now, but we can make it. We all have the same goal."
Throughout the march, the students received overwhelming support from the public. Citizens came out of their homes to cheer them on, and many offered food and encouragement, reinforcing the sense of camaraderie around the cause. Luka Arsenovic, another student participant, highlighted this community support, saying, “We need support from all people. With this energy and mood, I hope we can do it; otherwise, there will be no brighter future.”
Meanwhile, tensions have risen as protesters have faced violent backlash. Recently, incidents where cars have rammed pro-peace demonstrations resulted in injuries, adding to the atmosphere of fear and anger. Witnessing one of these events, Dr. Elena Matkovic recalled, "If you are asking me whether we will stop (the blockades), we most certainly will not. This is not the moment to stop." This sense of determination has been echoed throughout the protests, with the students firmly stating their intent to continue until their demands for accountability are met.
The protests have become the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's government since he took office. Following the fatal incident, demonstrators have demanded not only justice for the victims of the accident but also wider governmental reforms to combat corruption. Milos Vucevic, the Serbian Prime Minister, and Novi Sad Mayor Milan Djuric recently stepped down, citing their objective responsibility for the tragedy. This resignation marks a significant shift, as many see it as the result of pressure following relentless protests.
Serbians have rallied together not only to support the students but also to push for broader change within the troubled political system. Dimitrije, one of the students, articulated the underlying need for systemic reform: “On a basic level, yes, some demands have been met, but the essence is systemic change, not just resignations. So, no, our demands have not yet been met.”
Critics of the government's handling of the renovation of the Novi Sad railway station have pointed to potential graft and negligence, claiming inadequate oversight led to the construction failure. Many experts and activists argue the station's collapse is emblematic of the larger issue of corruption affecting not just the construction sector but Serbian society as whole.
President Vucic responded to the chorus of dissatisfaction with vague reassurances of dialogue, stating, "It is clear the country is under attack both from the outside and from the inside." Yet, his government’s attempts to suppress dissent and quell protests have drawn significant backlash, and students remain undeterred by threats.
Looking forward, the students are resolute about proceeding with their planned bridge blockades. The action is expected to draw participation not only from students but also from families, workers, and citizens of Novi Sad. Despite the freezing temperatures, their resolve remains strong and unified.
Collectively, the activities and sentiments surrounding this protest reflect deep-seated frustrations with corruption and the political climate under Vucic's leadership. With serious demands being made for accountability and transparency following the disaster, the outcome of these demonstrations could shape the future political discourse within Serbia. The final march toward Novi Sad symbolizes hope for change, echoing each student’s unwavering commitment to justice.