The students are continuing to demand justice for the victims of the tragic canopy collapse that occurred in Serbia last month. The students rallied outside the chief prosecutor’s office in Belgrade, leaving letters to express their expectations for a fair and transparent investigation. The collapse at the Novi Sad railway station resulted in the deaths of 15 people, with many attributing the incident to corruption and negligence in construction projects involving Chinese state companies. The public prosecutor’s office responded by inviting a student delegation for a meeting, indicating a willingness to engage with the demands of the protesters.
Following the tragedy, prosecutors have made arrests, including a government minister, but doubts about the integrity of the investigation have persisted. The involvement of Chinese state companies in questionable infrastructure projects has raised concerns about corruption and poor construction practices in the country. The students, supported by professors, farmers, and actors, have been leading a movement that extends beyond seeking justice for the victims of the collapse. A protest in Belgrade on Sunday, attended by tens of thousands, highlighted broader discontent with the rule of President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been accused of autocratic behavior.
The striking students have utilized symbolism in their protests, using red handprints on banners to convey the message that the authorities have “blood on their hands.” President Vucic, in an attempt to address the student strikes, has promoted “favorable” loans for young people to purchase apartments. Despite his efforts to appease the protesters, Vucic has faced criticism for his leadership style, which has been described as increasingly autocratic. Despite formally seeking European Union membership for Serbia, Vucic has been accused of restricting democratic freedoms within the country.
The student-led movement in Serbia reflects a larger trend of discontent with the current government and its handling of corruption and accountability issues. The protesters are demanding justice, transparency, and accountability from the authorities, particularly in cases of tragic incidents like the canopy collapse in Novi Sad. The widespread support for the striking students from various sectors of Serbian society indicates a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo and a desire for change. The involvement of young people in the protests suggests a strong desire for a more just and transparent society in Serbia, free from corruption and political abuse. As the protests continue, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the demands of the students and the broader discontent within the country.
