On 15 March 2025, one of the largest anti-government demonstrations in the country's history took place in the Serbian capital Belgrade. More than 100 000 people gathered to express their opposition to the government of President Aleksandar Vucic and to demand accountability for the tragedy that took place on 1 November the previous year. On that occasion, the roof of the railway station in the city of Novi Sad collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 15 people.
The protests, led mostly by students, began with a 15-minute silence in honour of the victims of the tragedy. The demonstrators then moved to the National Assembly building and Slavija Square, where they continued to express their disagreement with the current political situation.
In response to the planned protests, President Vučić said that riots and an attempt at a "colour revolution" were being prepared, which the state would not allow. Despite these claims, the demonstrations were largely peaceful, although there were a few incidents. For example, police arrested 13 people linked to acts of violence on the eve of the main protest.
Students in the blockade called on citizens across the country to display symbols of protest in their towns, villages and cities as a show of support ahead of a large rally in Belgrade. They stressed that every banner, poster or message represents a spark that ignites the flame of unity.
This mass participation in the protest reflects the growing dissatisfaction of citizens with the government and their desire for transparency and accountability. The events of 15 March 2025 may thus represent a significant turning point in Serbia's political landscape.
Protests in Belgrade: Hundreds of thousands of people demonstrate against the government. Live stream here https://n1info.rs/vesti/protest-u-beogradu-najnovije-vesti-15-mart/
gnews.cz / n1info.rs