The Government of Republika Srpska (RS) has declared tomorrow, November 1, a Day of Mourning to mark one year since the deadly collapse at the Novi Sad train station, where 16 people, including children, lost their lives and over 40 were injured.
While the government’s decision orders flags at half-mast and adjustments to public and media events, critics have denounced it as a hollow gesture meant to mask a complete lack of accountability. One year after the disaster, no official has been held responsible, and no clear explanation has been provided for how such a catastrophic failure of public safety occurred.
The canopy collapse, which many described as a direct result of negligence, corruption, and poor oversight, has become a symbol of institutional irresponsibility in Serbia. Instead of justice and reform, citizens have been offered only ceremonies and symbolic mourning — while those in power continue to evade consequences.
Observers note that this latest move by the RS Government is part of a recurring pattern of performative compassion, where mourning is declared, but truth and justice are deliberately ignored.
Until there is transparency and accountability for the lives lost, the Day of Mourning will remain a day of hypocrisy — not remembrance.
