Serbian students lead mass protests over corruption, demand change

Reuters
Reuters

Thousands in Niš held a 15-minute silence on Saturday to honor victims of a train station disaster, as student-led protests against corruption continue to grow across Serbia.

📌 What happened?

A roof collapse at Novi Sad station killed 15 people four months ago.
Students launched protests, blaming corruption linked to President Aleksandar Vučić’s government.

Protests Gain Momentum

What began as a student blockade of universities in December has now spread across Serbia. Protesters are demanding transparency over the disaster, justice for the victims, and better funding for education.

Hundreds of students marched, cycled, and ran to Niš, gathering support from towns along the way.

“This is the way to make a revolution,” said Tarek, a 22-year-old designer, who traveled from Novi Pazar. “We want a functional state without corruption.”

Government Response

President Vučić’s government has announced an anti-corruption campaign, while 13 people have been charged over the Novi Sad station collapse. However, protesters remain unsatisfied.

The Prime Minister and two ministers have resigned, but demonstrations continue daily. Students also demand that:
✔️ Authorities release documents on the disaster.
✔️ Charges against protesting students be dropped.
✔️ More funding be allocated to higher education.

Community Support

In Niš, farmers and locals welcomed the protesters. Nenad Maslaković, a 51-year-old farmer, set up a stand offering free fruit, coffee, and grilled food.

“Students are unspoiled souls,” Maslaković said. “We want to support them in their struggle.”

With daily protests spreading across Serbia, the student-led movement remains the strongest challenge to Vučić’s rule yet.

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