Protests and Clashes Erupt in Belgrade Against Serbia’s President
Violence broke out following a massive anti-government protest in Belgrade led by tens of thousands of opponents of Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic. Although the initial rally at a central square in Belgrade was peaceful, clashes ensued between groups of young demonstrators and riot police. The protesters threw flares, rocks, and bottles, while police responded with pepper spray. Trash cans were rolled into the streets as shield-bearing officers attempted to contain the protesters, with anti-riot vehicles deployed to prevent further escalation.
Earlier in the day, protesters had converged on Belgrade from towns across Serbia, displaying banners and wearing T-shirts with the ‘Students win’ slogan. These protesters included university students advocating for significant political changes in Serbia. Their demands for accountability included an early election and adherence to the rule of law, accusing the government of corruption and crime.
Prosecutor Bojana Savovic stated that, ‘a state where laws are not implemented or are selectively applied is no longer a state, it becomes a mafia organization.’
Despite attempts by President Vucic to suppress dissent after a train station tragedy in November 2024 that claimed 16 lives, large crowds have continued to gather in protest. The accident was allegedly caused by corruption-related negligence during renovation works carried out in collaboration with Chinese companies.
President Vucic responded to the protests by accusing demonstrators of displaying violence and intolerance toward political opponents. While speaking from a plane on his way to China, Vucic insisted that ‘the state is functioning and will continue to operate in accordance with the law.’
Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic downplayed the significance of the student-led rally, citing police estimates of 34,300 attendees and asserting that democracy is thriving in Serbia.
As Vucic’s supporters camp near the presidency building, protected by riot police amid folk music, transportation disruptions have occurred, with the state railway company canceling trains to and from Belgrade.
Serbia’s hard-line tactics, including arbitrary arrests and excessive force toward protesters, have drawn international scrutiny. Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty criticized the Serbian government’s handling of demonstrations and stated he would closely monitor the situation.
The pursuit of European Union membership for Serbia is under threat due to the country’s democratic backsliding, which might result in losing substantial EU funding. The protests are part of a broader movement that echoes widespread disillusionment with politicians following decades of crisis.
Students are emerging as potential challengers to Vucic in upcoming elections, with plans to counter his right-wing populist administration. Vucic announced a potential ballot between September and November.
Amid increasing political polarization, pro-government media and officials label critics as foreign agents intending to destabilize Serbia.
Protester Maja Milas Markovic expressed optimism stating, ‘students have managed to galvanize us with their vibrant energy; we believe deeply that we have the right to live under fair conditions.’