Historic Protest in Belgrade: An Estimated 107,000 Participants Gather
The largest protest in Serbian history unfolded peacefully in Belgrade, despite isolated incidents towards the end.
On March 15, 2025, Belgrade witnessed what is believed to be the largest protest in its history, organized under the slogan "15. za 15" in response to recent tragedies and calls for institutional change.
The protest began with a significant turnout, with police estimating the attendance peaked at 107,000 participants across various locations in the city.
The gathering was characterized by its peaceful nature for most of the day; however, it concluded with some minor incidents that led to calls from student leaders for attendees to disperse.
Despite over 50 individuals requiring medical attention throughout the day, there were no reported serious injuries associated with the protest.
Approximately 20 individuals were arrested, including a 20-year-old who allegedly made threats on social media regarding a violent uprising.
Reports indicate that sporadic clashes occurred, particularly as some protestors attempted to encroach on police lines outside the National Assembly.
A controversial moment arose when audio devices, reportedly related to the use of a device dubbed a "sound cannon," were mentioned.
The Serbian Ministry of Interior stated that no unauthorized sonic equipment was employed during the event, amid claims that some attendees experienced panic due to loud noises purportedly from this device.
The protest had a diverse demographic comprising students, teachers, farmers, and citizens of varying ages.
As participants gathered, many expressed their desire for greater governmental accountability and adherence to human rights, particularly in light of a recent incident in Novi Sad where 15 people lost their lives due to a structural failure.
Throughout the event, speakers highlighted the collective struggle against systemic corruption and the need for more robust media freedoms.
These sentiments resonated strongly with supporters, as chants and musical performances filled the air, reinforcing a sense of unity among the crowd.
As the event progressed, some segments of the protest displayed increasingly agitated behavior, including attempts to breach barriers set up by the police.
In response, the Ministry of Interior issued multiple warnings and deployed additional security forces to maintain order.
Notably, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić praised the large turnout during a press statement, emphasizing the importance of stability in the nation amidst such public demonstrations.
The day concluded with participants gradually dispersing from central locations, although tensions lingered in certain areas as night fell.
Authorities are currently reviewing the events of the day to assess the course of the protest and the reactions to it.
The protest began with a significant turnout, with police estimating the attendance peaked at 107,000 participants across various locations in the city.
The gathering was characterized by its peaceful nature for most of the day; however, it concluded with some minor incidents that led to calls from student leaders for attendees to disperse.
Despite over 50 individuals requiring medical attention throughout the day, there were no reported serious injuries associated with the protest.
Approximately 20 individuals were arrested, including a 20-year-old who allegedly made threats on social media regarding a violent uprising.
Reports indicate that sporadic clashes occurred, particularly as some protestors attempted to encroach on police lines outside the National Assembly.
A controversial moment arose when audio devices, reportedly related to the use of a device dubbed a "sound cannon," were mentioned.
The Serbian Ministry of Interior stated that no unauthorized sonic equipment was employed during the event, amid claims that some attendees experienced panic due to loud noises purportedly from this device.
The protest had a diverse demographic comprising students, teachers, farmers, and citizens of varying ages.
As participants gathered, many expressed their desire for greater governmental accountability and adherence to human rights, particularly in light of a recent incident in Novi Sad where 15 people lost their lives due to a structural failure.
Throughout the event, speakers highlighted the collective struggle against systemic corruption and the need for more robust media freedoms.
These sentiments resonated strongly with supporters, as chants and musical performances filled the air, reinforcing a sense of unity among the crowd.
As the event progressed, some segments of the protest displayed increasingly agitated behavior, including attempts to breach barriers set up by the police.
In response, the Ministry of Interior issued multiple warnings and deployed additional security forces to maintain order.
Notably, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić praised the large turnout during a press statement, emphasizing the importance of stability in the nation amidst such public demonstrations.
The day concluded with participants gradually dispersing from central locations, although tensions lingered in certain areas as night fell.
Authorities are currently reviewing the events of the day to assess the course of the protest and the reactions to it.
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