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Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in central Belgrade in Serbia on Saturday, renewing calls for early elections that emerged from an anti-corruption movement triggered by a deadly rail station disaster.
The protests began after the November 2024 canopy collapse at a station in Novi Sad, which killed 16 people leading to demands for accountability and a transparent investigation. Over time, the movement has evolved into a broader push for snap elections.
Crowds marched through the capital chanting “The students are winning,” with participants carrying Serbian flags, banners, and symbols linked to universities involved in the movement.
Tensions escalated later in the day as the rally dispersed, when clashes broke out between residents and police. Masked individuals reportedly threw stones, bottles, and firecrackers, prompting officers to respond with tear gas.
Authorities confirmed arrests, while security forces blocked access to key government buildings including the presidential and parliament complexes.
The prosecution office said those involved in attacks on police would be identified and prosecuted, while President Aleksandar Vučić condemned the violence, calling the scenes “not good for Serbia” and warning they would not change the political situation.
Police estimated turnout at around 34,000, though organisers and independent observers provided no alternative figure.
Students have remained central to the protests, with representatives saying the goal is to maintain pressure on the government and demand democratic reforms and the rule of law.
Earlier demonstrations in the movement reportedly drew as many as 300,000 people at its peak in March 2025, highlighting the scale of public anger following the disaster.
Some participants expressed frustration over governance, calling for Serbia to align more closely with democratic European standards, while others insisted the protests would continue until systemic change is achieved.
The unrest marks one of the most sustained waves of protest in Serbia in recent years, with occasional clashes raising concerns about escalating tensions between security forces and protesters.
