Demonstrations condemning government and law enforcement brutality occurring in Serbia

Protests Against Serbian Government Continue Amidst Allegations of Corruption and Authoritarianism

In the heart of Serbia, the capital city of Belgrade has been the scene of ongoing demonstrations against the government of President Aleksandar Vucic. Thousands of citizens have taken to the streets, voicing their discontent with the administration, accusing it of corruption and authoritarianism.

The recent events in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad have particularly fuelled the protesters' anger. On November 1, 2024, a freshly renovated train station canopy collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 16 people. The incident sparked widespread outrage, with many pointing fingers at the Vucic government for shoddiness and corruption.

The protests in Novi Sad escalated at the building of the local philosophy faculty, where students had occupied the premises for nine months. The pro-government dean, in collaboration with the police, forced the students to vacate the building. The incident was met with violence, as the police used tear gas, stun grenades, and batons against the peaceful protesters.

Independent TV station N1 reported the demonstration, highlighting the protesters' demands for an end to corruption and authoritarian rule. The opposition leaders active against President Vučić, such as Borko Stefanović and Zdravko Ponoš, have been vocal in their criticism of the President and have called for sanctions.

The government, however, has countered these allegations by claiming that protesters had attacked police officers. Media reports suggest that this is a recurring narrative employed by the government to justify its use of force against peaceful demonstrators.

The protests in Serbia have been ongoing for over ten months, with the demonstrators gathering in front of the government building, the courthouse, and several interior ministry facilities. The demonstrations in Belgrade and Novi Sad are not isolated incidents, but rather a reflection of the growing dissatisfaction among the Serbian populace.

As the protests continue, the future of President Vucic's government remains uncertain. The citizens of Serbia are calling for change, and it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these demands.

Demonstrations condemning government and law enforcement brutality occurring in Serbia