By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 25th September, 2025
The Serbia protests are about widespread discontent with the government, sparked by a tragic event in November 2024 when a newly renovated canopy at the Novi Sad railway station collapsed, killing 16 people. This incident ignited allegations of corruption, negligence, and authoritarianism against President Aleksandar Vučić’s government.
This time, tens of thousands of Serbians took to the streets in late August 2025, protesting against the government in multiple towns, including Belgrade. Shielded riot police were stationed outside President Aleksandar Vucic’s headquarters, where they formed a barricade against the demonstrators. The protests, led by high school and university students, which were sparked by a tragic event 10 months prior following the collapse of a concrete canopy at a train station in Novi Sad, which claimed 16 lives.
The canopy collapse ignited widespread outrage, with many citing state corruption and negligence as the root cause. In Novi Sad, police clashed with peaceful protesters, leaving some injured. The protests were marked by demands for early elections, transparent investigations, and accountability for those responsible for the tragedy.
The demonstrators are also calling for greater press freedom, which President Vucic has been accused of suppressing. The protests highlight the deep-seated tensions between the Serbian government and its citizens, with Vucic threatening a major crackdown on the protesters.
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