Serbian Student Strikes Challenge Vučić’s Leadership and Call for Accountability

BELGRADE — University students in Serbia are striking and protesting against what they say are violations of their civil rights under President Aleksandar Vučić’s government. On Sunday, thousands gathered outside the Constitutional Court in Belgrade, observing 15 minutes of silence to honor the 15 victims of a canopy collapse in Novi Sad last November.

The canopy at Novi Sad railway station collapsed on November 1, sparking outrage and almost

daily anti-corruption protests. Many blame the disaster on poor-quality reconstruction work tied to corruption, as the station had been renovated twice in recent years through deals with Chinese state companies. 

Students have demanded accountability for the tragedy, which they view as a symbol of systemic corruption. Their protests have grown, spreading to cities like Niš, while classes at universities across Serbia have been suspended for weeks. 

Protesters allege that Serbian state security, including the secret service (BIA), has been intimidating them. Some activists have had their personal information published in pro-government media, raising concerns of targeted harassment. Luka Stojaković, a student whose data was leaked, described the actions as attempts to suppress dissent, including threats against protesters’ families. Reported by N1 TV.

In response, President Vučić dismissed the protests, calling them “stupid” during an appearance on Pink TV. He claimed the students are being manipulated by professors and insisted he would not step down unless he chose to. 

Although charges have been filed against 13 people, including a government minister, for the Novi Sad tragedy, many Serbians question the independence of the investigation. The incident has become a flashpoint for wider dissatisfaction with Vučić’s leadership, which critics accuse of undermining democratic freedoms while claiming to advance Serbia toward EU membership.reported on the Euronews.

With tens of thousands of supporters attending rallies, these protests mark one of the most significant challenges to Vučić’s rule. Protesters continue to demand justice, accountability, and an end to what they see as increasing state repression.