Thousands of university students rallied in Novi Sad, Serbia, on Saturday, launching a new stage in their campaign against President Aleksandar Vucic’s government. Protesters accused the government of rampant corruption. This new phase follows over a year of mass demonstrations that have challenged the autocratic government across Serbia.
The demonstration in Novi Sad saw participants chant “thieves,” directly accusing the government of widespread corruption. They linked these systemic issues to a devastating November 2024 train station disaster in the northern city. That incident killed 16 people and ignited the nationwide movement for fundamental change, fueling public demand for accountability.
Student Demands and Government Stance
Students have consistently demanded an immediate early election to address government accountability and restore democratic processes. President Vucic has steadfastly refused to schedule such a vote, maintaining his grip on power.
His administration has responded to dissent with strong measures. Hundreds of individuals have reportedly been detained for opposing the government. Many activists have also reported losing their jobs or facing significant pressure from state authorities, intensifying concerns about civil liberties.
Speaking to the large crowd in Novi Sad, university students unveiled a detailed plan. This plan aims to eradicate systemic corruption from Serbia and restore the rule of law. They announced these initiatives as a direct continuation of their protest efforts from the previous year, signaling a more organized approach.
The students’ proposed initial steps for a potential post-Vucic government include two key actions. First, they demand a ban on all corrupt officials from holding political office. Second, they call for thorough and independent investigations into the wealth accumulated by these officials. The Saturday protest was specifically dubbed “What victory will mean,” emphasizing their long-term objectives for national reform.
Student organizers also highlighted their recent success in gathering broad public support. Last month, they announced collecting approximately 400,000 signatures . These signatures were gathered in support of their central demand for early elections, demonstrating significant public backing for their cause.
Upcoming Protest and Vucic’s Decade in Power
Organizers have set the date for the next major protest rally. It is scheduled for January 27 in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. This planned event signals the continued determination of the student movement.
President Vucic came to power more than a decade ago. He initially promised to lead Serbia toward integration with the European Union, a popular aspiration at the time. However, his foreign policy has since shifted significantly.
His administration has fostered stronger economic and political ties with non-EU powers, notably Russia and China. This geopolitical pivot has occurred alongside persistent accusations regarding the state of democratic freedoms in Serbia. Critics allege his government has systematically curbed media independence, suppressed political opposition, and consolidated power around the presidency.
Furthermore, there are widespread claims that corruption and organized crime have been allowed to flourish unchecked under his leadership. These allegations have eroded public trust in state institutions and fueled much of the protest movement.
The student movement has garnered substantial support among the Serbian populace. Many citizens express deep disillusionment with the country’s mainstream political landscape and perceive the student-led protests as a credible force for systemic change.
In response to the growing dissent, President Vucic has issued counter-accusations. He claims the students are acting under unspecified “Western orders.” Vucic asserts their true objective is to “destroy Serbia,” framing the protests as foreign-instigated interference rather than a genuine domestic movement.