On March 15, 2025, one of the largest protests in Serbian history took place in Belgrade, with estimates of attendance ranging from 275,000 to 325,000 participants, as citizens voiced their grievances against government corruption and repression.

The protests were sparked by a tragic incident in Novi Sad, where a shelter collapsed, allegedly due to mismanagement linked to corruption, underscoring demands for accountability from the ruling government.

Protesters gathered in the streets of Belgrade, where a moment of silence was observed for the victims of the Novi Sad incident.

However, this solemn moment was interrupted by chaos when a loud noise reportedly caused panic among the crowd, leading to a stampede.

Student organizers claimed that an acoustic weapon was used to disperse the gathering, while the Ministry of Interior denied the use of any such devices.

Government officials, including President Aleksandar Vučić, responded by asserting that no such acoustic weapons were deployed, calling allegations of their use a “lie” and dismissing claims of panic as misinformation.

Media coverage of the events varied, with international outlets reporting on the scale of the protests and the tension between demonstrators and government supporters.

Prior to the protests, pro-government groups were noted to have gathered, some reportedly linked to ultranationalist and militant factions, raising concerns over potential clashes.

The protest was characterized by a significant police presence, which officials claimed demonstrated restraint in the face of provocation.

However, there were reports of journalists being denied entry to cover the protests due to security assessments, further fueling concerns over press freedom during the demonstrations.

The Belgrade Prosecutor's Office announced the initiation of an investigation into the incidents at the protest, specifically focusing on the loud sound that caused panic among attendees.

They mandated the Ministry of Interior to ascertain whether any prohibited means were employed that might have endangered public safety.

Reports indicated that several individuals sought medical assistance post-protest, citing various health issues experienced during the incident.

Amidst the unrest, various civil society groups and university representatives have called for an independent investigation into the events, criticizing the government's handling of the protests and the potential use of excessive force.

A collective formation of university bodies from Belgrade demanded transparency and accountability after expressing outrage over the violence experienced by students and citizens alike.

In light of the tumultuous events, Vučić called upon the judiciary to take action against the spread of what he described as false information regarding the protest, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining order and stability.

Meanwhile, students at the forefront of the demonstrations announced their resolve to continue their activism, asserting they are prepared for further actions should their demands for accountability and reform not be met.

With the country facing increasing unrest and calls for reform, the implications of these protests on Serbian politics remain to be seen, as a backdrop of allegations of repression and corruption persist within the public discourse.