The collapse of a railway station canopy in Serbia, killing 15, has ignited mass protests against President Vučić, with growing discontent over corruption. Will the tragedy be the end of his regime?
On November 1st, Aleksandar Matković, an economic historian traveling from Novi Sad to Belgrade, witnessed a devastating tragedy at a Serbian railway station. A newly reconstructed station canopy, finished months earlier, collapsed, killing 15 people waiting on the platform. Matković, who arrived just moments after the incident, described the scene as surreal and shocking.
This tragedy has fueled widespread anger in Serbia, becoming a powerful symbol of what many perceive as deep-rooted corruption under President Aleksandar Vučić’s 12-year rule. The collapse of the station canopy has led to massive student-led protests demanding full disclosure of the reconstruction process, with some questioning whether these demonstrations could bring down Vučić’s government.
Vučić, who has dominated Serbian politics since becoming prime minister in 2014 and president in 2017, is criticized for eroding the country’s democratic institutions. Under his rule, media freedom has declined, and power has become increasingly concentrated in his hands. According to Freedom House, Serbia has not been considered a “free” state since 2019.
While Serbia’s international relations remain complex, balancing ties with both Russia and the West, the country faces significant internal unrest. Matković and other protesters argue that Vučić’s government is increasingly corrupt, pointing to the mishandling of infrastructure projects like the railway station, which was hastily reopened in 2022 and collapsed shortly thereafter.
Despite previous protests, this tragedy has sparked a new wave of anger, with growing participation from various segments of Serbian society, including farmers and judges. Analysts suggest that the protests have taken on a life of their own, with a clear shift in public sentiment against Vučić’s regime. The government is under pressure, and many wonder if this could be the event that topples Vučić’s hardline leadership.
As the protests continue, the challenge for Vučić is whether he can maintain control. Analysts believe that any violent crackdown could be disastrous for his regime, potentially marking the end of his political career. The growing unity across Serbian society against his government could be the tipping point for the president’s long reign.
