Serbia’s Largest Protest in Decades Challenges President Vučić
Nationwide demonstrations escalate following deadly Novi Sad train station collapse, sparking accusations of corruption and calls for government accountability.
Serbia is witnessing its largest anti-government protests in decades, with over 100,000 demonstrators gathering in Belgrade on March 15, 2025, to demand accountability from President Aleksandar Vučić’s administration.
The protests, initially triggered by the collapse of the Novi Sad train station canopy in November 2024, have evolved into a broader movement against corruption and government mismanagement.
The incident at Novi Sad station, which resulted in 15 deaths, has become a focal point for public anger, with many attributing the disaster to inadequate oversight and corruption in state infrastructure projects.
Protesters, led by university students, have called for government transparency, resignations of officials linked to the tragedy, and systemic reforms.
The Belgrade demonstration, dubbed '15 for 15' in reference to the date and the number of victims, saw participants march despite a suspension of public transportation.
Protesters observed a 15-minute silence before resuming their rally, with banners calling for justice and reform.
During the event, a sudden loud noise caused panic and a brief stampede among attendees.
Witnesses reported an unusual low-frequency sound, leading to speculation that a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) may have been used for crowd control.
Some protesters reported symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and hearing discomfort.
The Serbian government has denied deploying any such device, with President Vučić stating that an LRAD emits a 'strong, piercing sound' that was not present during the protest.
In response to the growing unrest, Serbian authorities have increased security measures.
The Interior Ministry confirmed the arrest of 13 individuals, including six opposition activists accused of inciting violence.
Additionally, a man was detained after driving into a group of demonstrators, injuring three people.
Protests have continued in major cities across Serbia, with demonstrators calling for a transitional government and the release of official documents related to the Novi Sad station’s renovation.
The movement has gained international attention, prompting concerns from human rights organizations and the European Union.
President Vučić has dismissed allegations of government misconduct and has claimed that Western intelligence agencies are fueling the protests.
He has not provided evidence to support this claim but has vowed to remain in office despite mounting pressure.
Calls for early elections and demands for increased oversight of state projects continue to dominate the protests as the movement grows in intensity.
The protests, initially triggered by the collapse of the Novi Sad train station canopy in November 2024, have evolved into a broader movement against corruption and government mismanagement.
The incident at Novi Sad station, which resulted in 15 deaths, has become a focal point for public anger, with many attributing the disaster to inadequate oversight and corruption in state infrastructure projects.
Protesters, led by university students, have called for government transparency, resignations of officials linked to the tragedy, and systemic reforms.
The Belgrade demonstration, dubbed '15 for 15' in reference to the date and the number of victims, saw participants march despite a suspension of public transportation.
Protesters observed a 15-minute silence before resuming their rally, with banners calling for justice and reform.
During the event, a sudden loud noise caused panic and a brief stampede among attendees.
Witnesses reported an unusual low-frequency sound, leading to speculation that a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) may have been used for crowd control.
Some protesters reported symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and hearing discomfort.
The Serbian government has denied deploying any such device, with President Vučić stating that an LRAD emits a 'strong, piercing sound' that was not present during the protest.
In response to the growing unrest, Serbian authorities have increased security measures.
The Interior Ministry confirmed the arrest of 13 individuals, including six opposition activists accused of inciting violence.
Additionally, a man was detained after driving into a group of demonstrators, injuring three people.
Protests have continued in major cities across Serbia, with demonstrators calling for a transitional government and the release of official documents related to the Novi Sad station’s renovation.
The movement has gained international attention, prompting concerns from human rights organizations and the European Union.
President Vučić has dismissed allegations of government misconduct and has claimed that Western intelligence agencies are fueling the protests.
He has not provided evidence to support this claim but has vowed to remain in office despite mounting pressure.
Calls for early elections and demands for increased oversight of state projects continue to dominate the protests as the movement grows in intensity.
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