Introduction

In a remarkable display of unity and discontent, approximately 325,000 people packed the streets of Belgrade this past Saturday, protesting against the Serbian government in light of a devastating railway station collapse that claimed the lives of 15 individuals last November.

Protest Attendance

While government estimates predict the turnout was around 107,000, independent observers assert that the actual number far exceeds that, establishing a new precedent for protest attendance in Serbia’s history. The tragedy at the Novi Sad station, a disaster many attribute to government corruption and insufficient safety measures, has incited outrage, particularly against President Aleksandar Vucic, who played a key role in the building's renovation just prior to the incident.

Voices from the Crowd

"All we desire is a country that functions effectively," echoed law student Jana Vasic amid the sea of demonstrators. She emphasized a demand for justice and accountability, framing the protest as a matter of national integrity rather than political allegiance. "We need institutions that fulfill their roles responsibly; it shouldn't matter who's in power."

Gathering Points and Composition of the Crowd

Republic Square, the designated gathering spot, echoed with chants as protesters gathered in several locations around the capital, with some climbing onto the statue of Prince Mihajlo, a storied meeting point for locals, reminiscent of London’s Piccadilly Circus. Reports indicated that multiple other gathering points were equally filled with citizens eager to voice their frustrations.

Crowds not only included students but also taxi drivers, farmers, and professionals, showing a broad coalition of societal sectors unsatisfied with the status quo. In an alarming development, Serbian media reported that at least 22 protesters were arrested and 56 others sustained injuries amidst the unrest.

Solidarity and Tension

In a show of solidarity, motorcycle riders faced against vehicles of pro-government activists, while a procession of military veterans pledged to safeguard peaceful protesters, indicating a growing concern for government crackdown measures against dissent.

Call for Accountability

As protesters called for full accountability over the collapse of the station, which was renovated as recently as 2022, they demanded that all documents related to the project be released, asserting that the government's previous disclosures lacked transparency. Prosecutors have indicted 16 individuals, including former construction minister Goran Vesic, yet many in the crowd remain dissatisfied as they await trials, echoing their determination to hold those responsible to account.

Political Climate

Despite Prime Minister Milos Vucevic’s recent resignation, there has been no substantial political shift, as he retains his position while the National Assembly deliberates on the matter. Meanwhile, President Vucic, refusing to resign, labeled the opposition as a "criminal cartel" and underscored his resolve against what he termed "blackmail" from protestors.

Opposition Proposal

Opposition leaders like Borko Stefanovic advocate for a "government of experts," which would ideally restore public trust and lead to fair elections. However, there’s skepticism among students that elections fair to all parties could be arranged under current conditions rife with Progressive Party control over media and government operations.

Conclusion

University law professor Miodrag Jovanovic summarized the protesters' demands, stressing the need for governmental responsibility and adherence to constitutional principles—a sentiment that resonates deeply among the demonstrators.

As the protests continue, it remains clear that the citizens of Serbia are united in their quest for justice and accountability, igniting a movement that may shape the future of the nation’s political landscape. The “15th for 15” protest is more than just a response to a tragic event; it signifies a turning point for a populace eager to reclaim their voice and demand substantive change from their leaders.