Forget the fireworks and champagne toasts! This New Year’s Eve, Serbia saw a different kind of celebration: massive anti-government protests. Thousands of people, led by passionate university students, took to the streets instead of partying, demanding justice and political change. This wasn’t just a spontaneous outburst; it’s a culmination of anger following a tragic incident that has shaken the nation.
Key Points:
- Tens of thousands protested in Belgrade and other Serbian cities.
- Protests sparked by a deadly canopy collapse at Novi Sad train station.
- Students are at the forefront, demanding accountability.
- Protesters are accusing the government of corruption and negligence.
- The movement is gaining support from various segments of society.
Tragedy Sparks Outrage
The catalyst for these demonstrations was the horrific collapse of a concrete canopy at Novi Sad’s central train station on November 1st. This incident, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people, has ignited a firestorm of public anger. Many attribute the disaster to corruption and shoddy construction practices, directly blaming the current populist government.
Students Lead the Charge
University students have emerged as the driving force behind the protests. They’ve adopted the powerful slogan: ‘There is No New Year — You Still Owe Us for the Old One,’ reflecting their determination to seek justice. On New Year’s Eve, the protesters observed a moment of silence at 11:52 p.m. to honor the victims of the Novi Sad tragedy, a poignant reminder of the loss that fuels their movement.
The protesters have also adopted the image of a red handprint as a powerful symbol of their movement. They accuse the authorities of having ‘blood on their hands’, emphasizing their belief that the government is complicit in the tragedy due to its actions (or inaction).
More Than Just a Protest
The demonstrations aren’t just about the canopy collapse. They represent a broader wave of discontent with President Aleksandar Vucic’s leadership, which is increasingly seen as autocratic. Support for the student-led movement is growing across various societal groups, including professors, farmers, and actors. This growing coalition signals a strong desire for real change in Serbia.
A Show of Defiance
While state-sponsored concerts were taking place nearby, the protestors marched and voiced their discontent. The police were present, with metal fences set up to separate the two groups. This New Year’s Eve became a show of defiance, highlighting the protestors’ unwavering commitment to seeking justice, even during the festive season.
In Belgrade, state-sponsored events were held at the city center and the newly constructed Belgrade Waterfront area, a project claimed by President Vucic to be his own, together with investors from the United Arab Emirates. Interestingly, Belgrade has become a well-known New Year’s Eve party spot for tourists with street festivities and fireworks.
Nationwide Movement
The protests weren’t confined to Belgrade. Thousands of people also gathered in Novi Sad and Nis, the southern city, demonstrating that the call for justice is resonating throughout the country. It’s clear that a significant portion of the Serbian population is demanding accountability and change.
Government Response and Public Reaction
Although the public prosecutor has indicted 13 individuals, including a former minister, for the canopy collapse, protesters say it is not enough. They emphasize that the indictment neglects possible corrupt deals that may have taken place during the train station renovation involving Chinese companies.
President Vucic has responded by claiming that all student demands have been met and that he is open to discussion. He asserts that he won’t be swayed by protests. However, these statements appear to be falling on deaf ears, as the public continues to demand deeper accountability and systemic reform.
The ongoing protests reflect the deep-seated frustration within the Serbian population. The people are not just mourning a tragedy; they are challenging the status quo and demanding a government that serves its citizens, not the other way around.