A group of students from Serbia, who have been leading protests by blocking faculties for almost four months, began a 1,300 km bicycle journey from Novi Sad to Strasbourg, France, on April 3. Their goal is to raise awareness about their demands in front of key European institutions and highlight the importance of justice for the victims of the Novi Sad railway station tragedy, reports RFE.
The tragic incident, which occurred on November 1, 2024, claimed the lives of 16 individuals when the roof of the railway station in Novi Sad collapsed. The students are calling for criminal and political accountability for the incident. In addition, they demand the full release of documentation regarding the reconstruction of the station building, and the suspension of legal actions against those arrested during their protests.
The group, consisting of 80 students and representatives from four Serbian universities, will travel through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, and France, where the European Parliament and the Council of Europe are located. The students have garnered support from various sectors, including farmers, motorcyclists, and the Serbian diaspora, who are providing them with accommodation along the way.
Key Points:
- The journey aims to bring attention to the lack of accountability following the Novi Sad railway station tragedy that killed 16 people.
- Students demand the release of full documentation related to the station’s reconstruction and justice for protestors subjected to police violence.
- The bicycle ride will cover 1,300 km and take approximately 12-13 days.
The students have vowed to continue their fight until their demands are met, despite the government’s claim that all their requests have been addressed. As the protest movement gains momentum, it has become a symbol of the wider dissatisfaction with the rule of law in Serbia.
