Tens of thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Novi Sad, Serbia, on Saturday, marking three months since the tragic collapse of the central train station canopy, which left 15 people dead. The overwhelming turnout has become emblematic of widespread discontent against the government’s corruption and negligence, particularly amid infrastructure projects involving Chinese state companies.
The demonstration, dubbed “Three Months — Three Bridges,” saw protestors block key routes and interrupt traffic, wielding banners emblazoned with messages such as “We are defending freedom.” Local residents joined, waving Serbian flags dousing the streets with colors of national pride. Students have emerged as the leaders of this protest movement, organizing rallies and attracting attention across the nation.
The protest's calls are fueled by growing frustration over perceived government corruption. Critics assert the canopy collapse was largely due to poor oversight during renovations linked to foreign contractors, highlighting systemic failures within Serbian infrastructure projects. "Many believe it was disregard for safety regulations and graft during reconstruction work at the Novi Sad station," reported the Associated Press.
Local resident Slavica Nikolic expressed optimism amid the chaos: "After long time we can feel positive energy in the air, on the streets, among people. It feels like the hope has woken up," she stated during the demonstration, evoking the shared sentiments of many attendees who took to the streets not only to mourn but also to demand accountability.
The protests were marked by their peaceful yet defiant nature, attracting protesters from across the nation eager for change. Students organized marches, traveled uphill to join their peers over 50 miles of roadways, often met by cheering locals who offered them food and drinks—a symbolic camaraderie underscoring the movement’s unity.
President Aleksandar Vučić, facing mounting pressure, accused the protesters of being manipulated by foreign intelligence services yet simultaneously proposed negotiations with demonstrators. He stated, “Today we offer talks and dialogue,” as part of his strategy to quell the growing discontent. For many, such promises ring hollow, as previous overtures by the government have failed to address underlying issues.
The protests have achieved significant political consequences already. On the heels of recent demonstrations, Prime Minister Milos Vučević resigned from his post, acknowledging the need to ease tensions. Following his departure, additional concessions have been discussed, including the release of safety documents related to the Novi Sad station’s renovations and increased funding for education.
Yet the demands extend beyond mere gestures. The movement has coalesced around four primary objectives: seeking justice for the victims through criminal accountability of those involved, greater transparency around the renovation documents, the dropping of charges against arrested students and protesters, and increased funding for Serbia's higher education institutions.
Former Prime Minister Vučević's resignation earlier this week is viewed as just one victory amid what many hope will be transformative change. "There is no turning back, no fear, and we will not give up,” stated Jelena Vuksanovic, one philosophy student among the crowd. Such determination encapsulates the movement's spirit, rooted not only in protest but also calling for the reimagining of governance.
Despite moments of turbulence marked by clashes between protesters and pro-government supporters, many remain hopeful about the society's future. With cultural, historical, and national significance tightly woven through their protests, students rally not just against corruption but for systemic change—demanding governance reflective of their needs.
The canopy collapse may have initially shocked the nation, but the response it engendered may very well change the political climate for years to come. It is now evident: the rising tide of protest demonstrates collective resolve, asserting determination for transparency, justice, and accountability from their leaders. The future of Serbia rests on their ability to sustain the momentum of this pivotal moment.
Students, rallying under various flags and banners, embody the very essence of resistance to autocracy, asking: what is the state truly serving? Amid echoes of history, the protests emerge not merely as outcries but as hopes for new beginnings.