Belgrade Protest Draws Over 100,000 Demonstrators
Belgrade witnessed an unprecedented protest as over 100,000 people gathered in the Serbian capital to voice discontent against President Aleksandar Vucic and his administration. The demonstration, regarded as one of the largest in the country’s history, showcased the growing frustration over corruption, governance failures, and safety concerns. Protesters filled the streets despite the rain, highlighting the depth of their determination.
The demonstration was a culmination of months of protests triggered by a tragic accident in northern Serbia. The collapse of a train station canopy in November, which killed 15 people, became a rallying point for public outrage. Many blamed the incident on systemic corruption, negligence, and poor enforcement of construction safety regulations. The protest, dubbed “15 for 15,” symbolized both the date of the rally and the number of victims.
The atmosphere in Belgrade was charged, with the sounds of whistles, drums, and chants filling the air. Protesters carried banners demanding change, while student leaders, who have spearheaded the movement, emphasized their call for justice. The Serbian government, meanwhile, sought to downplay the significance of the protest, with officials warning against unrest and making arrests ahead of the rally.
Belgrade Protests Spark Tensions and Arrests
As crowds gathered across Belgrade, tensions between protesters and authorities escalated. University students, who had been leading the demonstrations for months, abruptly ended the protest due to safety concerns. Despite this, thousands remained on the streets, showing defiance against the government’s control.
Serbian police reported that the peak attendance reached 107,000 people, though independent media claimed the turnout was much higher. Public transportation was suspended in the capital, and road access was heavily restricted to prevent more people from joining the rally. However, determined demonstrators found ways to reach the city center.
Authorities deployed heavy police presence around government buildings, with reports of several detentions. Interior Minister Ivica Dacic confirmed the arrest of 13 individuals, including six opposition activists accused of plotting unrest. Additionally, a man was arrested for driving his vehicle into a crowd, injuring three people. The Serbian government’s efforts to suppress the protests further fueled resentment among the public.
Belgrade Rally Highlights Growing Anti-Government Sentiment
The scale of the Belgrade protest underscored a deepening crisis for President Vucic. Over his 13 years in power, he has maintained a firm grip on Serbia, but the recent wave of demonstrations signals a significant challenge to his authority. Protesters chanted slogans such as “He’s Finished!” and “Pump it Up,” emphasizing their determination to push for change.
Despite government warnings, thousands of people from different parts of Serbia traveled to Belgrade to take part in the rally. Students marching or cycling to the capital were met with warm welcomes from supporters. Their leadership in the protests has resonated with many citizens who have grown disillusioned with traditional politicians.
Vucic, however, dismissed the protests as part of a foreign-backed conspiracy. He accused Western intelligence agencies of orchestrating the demonstrations to remove him from power, though he provided no evidence to support his claims. Meanwhile, his supporters, including ex-paramilitary members and soccer hooligans, set up counter-camps in central Belgrade, raising concerns about possible clashes.
Belgrade Protesters Demand Accountability and Justice
The anti-corruption movement that ignited the Belgrade protests is not solely about the train station disaster. It reflects years of frustration with alleged government misconduct, lack of transparency, and economic struggles. Protesters demand accountability, reforms, and an end to corruption plaguing state institutions.
For many in Belgrade, the rally was a defining moment. While the government attempted to discredit the movement, the sheer size of the protest demonstrated widespread dissatisfaction. Many believe this is just the beginning of a larger movement to reshape Serbia’s political landscape.
In the coming weeks, the future of the protests remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear—Belgrade has sent a powerful message that the demand for justice and democracy cannot be ignored.
