Riot police in Novi Sad used tear gas and stun grenades on September 5 to disperse hundreds of students protesting near the University of Novi Sad. The students are demanding reforms, early elections, and action against corruption after nearly 10 months of nationwide demonstrations.
The student-led movement has become a focal point of dissent against President Aleksandar Vučić and his ruling Serbian Progressive Party, with the Faculty of Philosophy campus emerging as a protest stronghold. Police claim their presence is to “restore order” amid ongoing sit-ins, but students accuse authorities and some university deans of working together to suppress dissent.
Protesters referenced the November 2024 tragedy in Novi Sad, when a train station roof collapse killed 16 people, blaming it on lax enforcement and corruption.
“Student rebellion and a free university today are the last line of defense for education, truth, and dignity,” one speaker declared, condemning the government’s heavy-handed tactics.
Other students voiced determination to resist police pressure:
- Olga, a protester, stated: “Self-defense is not an attack. They cannot suffocate the idea of a free university with tear gas.”
- Ivana, another demonstrator, added: “There are no institutions we can appeal to. The only way is to gather like this.”
Supporters, including Novi Sad resident Branislav Stevanović, joined the protests to defend university autonomy and show solidarity with students.
Despite escalating tensions, protesters insist they will continue their movement until their voices are heard and meaningful reforms are introduced.
