Serbia is witnessing widespread protests tonight after brutal attacks on students in Novi Sad during a demonstration linked to the presence of former mayor and ex-prime minister Miloš Vučević. Citizens and student organizations are denouncing the violence and the perceived inaction of authorities.
Student groups and civic organizations have called for gatherings in multiple cities, emphasizing solidarity with the victims and demanding accountability.
Key Protest Locations and Times
- Novi Sad: Students and citizens are assembling at Pozorišni trg at 18:00, stating, “Our streets were again soaked with students’ blood. We cannot stay at home.”
- Belgrade: Protests under the slogan “Beograd ne ćuti” will be held at Ušće and Kneza Miloša, in response to violence by SNS supporters.
- Niš: Students and local groups call on citizens to gather at 18:00 in front of the court, expressing solidarity with Novi Sad students.
- Kraljevo: Protest scheduled for 17:30 at Trg srpskih ratnika, highlighting the need for visible solidarity and the rejection of violence.
- Valjevo: Students will assemble at 18:00 in front of Valjevska Gimnazija, stressing that violence “is never a solution.”
- Čačak: Demonstration at 18:00 outside SNS party offices, criticizing the party for tolerating attacks on students.
- Kragujevac and Smederevo: Gatherings planned at 19:00, reinforcing public outrage over repeated assaults on students.
Background: The Novi Sad Incident
The protests stem from events at the “Indeks je za studente” demonstration, which coincided with the 200th anniversary of Matica srpska. Although President Aleksandar Vučić canceled his visit, students proceeded with their protest due to the presence of Vučević.
During the event, masked assailants attacked students and journalists, resulting in at least three students injured and one journalist physically assaulted multiple times, losing their phone in the attack. Protest organizers accuse perpetrators of acting with “party blessing” and highlight police inaction during the violence.
Public Reaction and Significance
Organizers emphasize that this wave of protests represents more than student grievances: it is a broader call against politically motivated violence and intimidation, particularly from ruling party supporters. The demonstrators’ unified message across Serbia is clear: “Violence is never a solution, and we will not stand by silently.”
Analysts note that these protests underscore deepening societal polarization in Serbia and the erosion of trust in law enforcement and government institutions. Citizens and students are demanding accountability, transparency, and the protection of civil liberties.
