Student-Led Protests Demand Early Elections Across Serbia

Thousands of anti-government protesters, primarily university students, gathered in Belgrade demanding early elections to end President Aleksandar Vucic's 12-year rule amid growing discontent over alleged government corruption and negligence. The protests intensified following the deadly collapse of a renovated train station canopy in Novi Sad in late 2024, which critics linked to graft and state infrastructure mismanagement. Despite official reports claiming smaller attendance, independent monitors estimated about 140,000 participants, highlighting the scale of opposition. Riot police clashed with demonstrators, using tear gas and pepper spray, while Vucic accused foreign powers of instigating violence and maintained his refusal to hold snap elections, with his ruling Serbian Progressive Party mobilizing counter-protesters. Protesters condemned Vucic's administration for stifling democracy, curbing media freedom, and fostering corruption, declaring the current authorities illegitimate and pledging to continue peaceful protests. The political tension underscores Serbia's ongoing struggle with governance and public trust ahead of scheduled elections in 2027.