Student’s Perspective on Serbia’s Growing Protest Movement

A Nation Shaken: The Canopy Collapse and Its Aftermath 

On the first of November, tragedy struck Novi Sad when a railway station canopy collapsed, killing several people. Many believe the disaster was caused by corruption in the construction process. The shock and grief quickly turned into outrage, sparking protests demanding accountability. However, many demonstrators were arrested, and some remain in custody to this day. 

The situation escalated further on November 29th when students from the Faculty of Dramatic Arts organized a protest, igniting a nationwide movement. Students across Serbia began blocking universities and taking to the streets. During one demonstration, they held a 15-minute moment of silence for the victims, only to be attacked by counter-protesters. This violence fueled further mobilization, leading more universities to join the movement. Marija explains the four key demands they have set: full transparency on the railway station’s construction, the dismissal of charges against arrested protesters, prosecution of those who attacked demonstrators, and a 20% increase in the higher education budget, which currently stands at below 1% of national funding. 

While not inherently "successful," the protests have gained significant traction, in comparison to similar protests before. Marija explains “After 13 years of political stagnation, this tragedy and the protests have awakened a disillusioned public. The movement’s greatest strength lies in its refusal to align with political parties, uniting those who otherwise might have remained passive. Generational differences play a crucial role. Younger protesters, who have only known the current president’s rule, are not weighed down by past disappointments. Older generations, once resigned to inaction, are now re-engaging, offering expertise and support to the student movement.” The scale of coordination and mobilization has surprised even the participants themselves. What started in major cities has spread to villages, shifting public opinion toward supporting the protesters' demands. 

Hearings were held to "show accountability," but they proved ineffective. The Minister of Construction, who was considered the most responsible, was actually in the country during the reconstruction process but left shortly after the hearings. He deflected blame onto his subordinates without taking any real responsibility. According to Marija, the government's response was merely performative. The authorities continue to downplay the protests while failing to address the root causes of the crisis. 

Opposition, the EU, and a Delicate Balance 

Opposition parties have largely stepped back, respecting the student movement’s insistence on remaining apolitical. While many politicians support the protests as individuals, they do not interfere organizationally. Marija acknowledges the values of movements like the Green Youth of Serbia but remains critical of the broader opposition, as they struggle to challenge the ruling party’s dominance. 

Additionally, the European Union’s role has been minimal, as the Serbian government largely ignores it. Public trust in the EU is complicated as well. The Serbian government tries to balance diplomatic relationships with both Russia and the EU, and many citizens oppose EU membership, especially due to historical grievances towards NATO. There is also skepticism that joining the EU would put an end to corruption, as they turn their eyes to the growing right extremism and corruption in neighboring EU countries like Romania.  However, when the organizations within the EU raise awareness on the situation in connection to the students, it helps the movement significantly to grow further concern on the governmental corruption. “Currently, students are drafting an open letter to the EU to express their nuanced stance towards the institution. While they recognize the need to raise awareness among students about the EU's role, they also acknowledge the potential risks of diplomatic assistance and remain cautious in seeking support,” as Marija highlights. 

When EU organizations amplify student voices, it does help raise awareness, but direct EU pressure can backfire. Serbian state media and intelligence services have already framed protesters as "EU agents." Some students have even faced doxxing, with their passports leaked to portray them as dangerous pro-European activists. This has made the movement more cautious about engaging with external actors. 

What Comes Next? 

For students, farmers, professors, and workers, the goal is simple: a government that governs for the people, not for personal profit. They are not calling for a revolution, just transparency and accountability. Despite differing demands, all protesters share a core belief, Serbia’s institutions must serve its citizens again. Marija exclaims “We came with realistic demands, that have to be fulfilled. Until that happens, we will keep marching, striking, and occupying, refusing to back down until real change is achieved.”