Demonstrations against aggressive actions by the government and law enforcement in Serbia
In Belgrade, Serbia, thousands of people gathered to demonstrate against President Aleksandar Vucic over the weekend. The protests, which have been ongoing for over ten months, were sparked by the collapse of a freshly renovated train station canopy in Novi Sad on November 1, 2024, resulting in the deaths of 16 people.
The demonstrators accused President Vucic of corruption and autocracy, with their anger particularly directed at the police's recent violent intervention in Novi Sad. Last Friday, police used tear gas, stun grenades, and batons against peaceful protesters in Novi Sad.
The protests in Belgrade were against the government's actions in Novi Sad, with protesters gathering in front of the government building, the courthouse, and several facilities of the Ministry of Interior. Media reports claim that the government stated that protesters had attacked police officers. However, independent experts and opposition figures blame shoddiness and corruption under the Vucic government for the train station disaster.
The protest in Novi Sad escalated at the building of the local Philosophy Faculty, where the pro-government dean forced students to leave the building, which they had occupied for nine months. The students have been protesting against the dean's decision, claiming it is an attempt to suppress their freedom of speech.
Independent TV station N1 reported on the demonstration in Belgrade, shedding light on the ongoing dissatisfaction with the government. Despite the lack of explicit calls from opposition politicians for an investigation into the interior ministry's responsibilities related to the Novi Sad incident, the protests and clashes mostly focus on government criticism, President Vučić, and university student-led demonstrations after the fatal collapse.
The demonstrations in Serbia continue to be a significant expression of public discontent, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The government's response and actions will likely play a crucial role in determining the future course of these protests.
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