Tens of thousands of people across Serbia took to the streets today, with numerous businesses shutting down as part of a strike spearheaded by students, according to the Associated Press (AP).
Amidst the nationwide unrest, populist President Aleksandar Vučić organized a rally in Jagodina, a stronghold of his coalition, to counter nearly three months of anti-government protests challenging his authority. Addressing thousands of supporters, Vučić claimed Serbia is “under attack both externally and internally,” emphasizing ties with Russia and China while reaffirming his refusal to impose sanctions on Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine.
Student-Led Protests Gain Momentum
Student-organized protests, which have garnered widespread support from various social groups, included daily traffic blockades in major cities like Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš. The protests are largely fueled by public outrage over the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad on November 1, which killed 15 people. Many believe the incident resulted from corruption and negligence during reconstruction projects involving Chinese state-owned companies.
Restaurants, cafes, theaters, bakeries, and bookstores joined the strike, though the exact number of participants remains unclear. In Belgrade, tensions escalated when a woman drove her car into a crowd of demonstrators, injuring one protester.
Vučić Responds with New Political Movement
At the rally in Jagodina, Vučić announced plans to form a national political movement by March, modeled on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s United Russia Party, to solidify the dominance of his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS).
While prosecutors have charged 13 individuals, including government officials, for the Novi Sad incident, critics argue the investigation lacks transparency, citing the release of former construction minister Goran Vesić from custody as evidence of political interference.
Democratic Freedoms in Question
The protests are reportedly the largest since Vučić took office, amid accusations of eroding democratic freedoms despite Serbia’s EU membership aspirations. Pro-government media outlets and officials have labeled student protesters as agents of foreign intelligence services, and government-aligned groups have allegedly attacked demonstrators.
Educational institutions, including universities and schools, have faced prolonged closures, with legal associations also joining the strike. The protests signal growing dissent against Vučić’s administration, as citizens demand accountability and reforms.
