Belgrade witnessed unprecedented scenes as thousands of anti-government protesters, primarily university students, took to the streets during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The protests were ignited by anger over the tragic collapse of the concrete canopy at Novi Sad’s central train station, which claimed the lives of 15 individuals on November 1. Amid revelry filled with folk music and festive fireworks, demonstrators chanted slogans and bore banners demanding justice and accountability from the Serbian government.
The slogan of the protests, "There is No New Year — You Still Owe Us for the Old One," neatly encapsulated the spirit of defiance, emphasizing the protestors' dissatisfaction with the current administration. The demonstrators paused at exactly 11:52 PM for a moment of silence to honor the victims of the catastrophe. Many held banners featuring red handprints, symbolizing what they termed the government's complicity: having "blood on their hands." Their presence was felt unmistakably, even as state-sponsored celebrations were planned just blocks away.
Coinciding with the protests, state authorities had organized New Year's Eve festivities throughout Belgrade, complete with musical performances and fireworks. The public outcry stemmed from accusations of corruption and poor oversight linked to the building of the train station. The students were not alone; support poured in from various segments of society, including professors, farmers, and actors—each echoing the demand for justice.
Since the collapse, there have been significant developments, including the indictment of 13 individuals associated with the renovation project, among them Goran Vesic, the former transport minister who resigned following the incident. Yet the protesters, undeterred, expressed feelings of inadequacy around these charges, arguing they failed to address the corruption underlying the renovation project, which involved Chinese companies. This sentiment fueled additional protests as people voiced concerns over systemic issues within the Serbian government under President Aleksandar Vucic.
Proudly saying their protests were about invoking justice rather than celebrating the New Year, the students emphasized, “There is nothing to celebrate.” Their demonstration linked to broader feelings of discontent against President Vucic’s regime, which many view as increasingly authoritarian. The gulf between the state and its citizens has manifested starkly as protests disrupted celebrations nationwide as students rallied together across the country.
Despite Vucic claiming he has fulfilled all student demands, many remain skeptical. He stated, “I have always been ready to talk, but they won’t talk to me; they have no arguments,” during interviews surrounding the protests. His assertion did not quiet the chants of protesters proclaiming, “We Want Justice!” as they filled the streets protesting throughout the three key cities. The protests served as both chaos and cohesion amid traditional festivities, presenting contrasting narratives—a jovial public celebration clashing with solemn calls for accountability.
Even amid the cold winter weather, the public outcry continued to swell, showing little sign of abatement. On numerous occasions, protesters interrupted celebrations, leading to moments where they gathered to stand silently for 15 minutes at midnight, bowing their heads solemnly even as fireworks marked the New Year. Some participants expressed frustrations over government rhetoric equipping them with labels of “serving foreign intelligence” or “protesting for money,” which only intensified their resolve.
The protests forming across Serbia are emblematic of the growing dissatisfaction with political leadership. They reflect widespread societal demands for justice and reform, stirred by the tragic collapse at Novi Sad and perceptions of corrupt practices within government actions. Moving forward, it seems the public’s mobilization will not cease until thorough accountability and political reforms are achieved. While state celebrations occurred, the protesters' steadfastness shone through the fog, forging their narrative for justice and truth, compelling all to acknowledge their voice.
What commenced as celebrations morphed swiftly and dramatically, highlighting the increasing polarization within Serbian society. No longer is the story merely one of tragedy; it serves as both caution and call to action, as citizens strive for recognition and justice for what they deem systematic failure on part of their government. On the cusp of the new year, both celebratory spirits and disillusioned hearts converge, demanding to be heard.