Serbia witnessed its largest-ever public demonstration as hundreds of thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Belgrade, demanding accountability over the Novi Sad railway station disaster that claimed 15 lives. The demonstration, dubbed “15th for 15,” symbolized the months of frustration over government corruption and negligence.
While official figures put the turnout at 107,000, independent monitors estimated attendance between 275,000 and 325,000, making it the most significant protest in Serbian history. Demonstrators blame the government, particularly President Aleksandar Vučić, for systemic failures that led to the station collapse.
The protest attracted a diverse mix of students, farmers, lawyers, and military veterans. Holding up their mobile phone lights for 15 minutes in memory of the victims, protesters filled Republic Square and surrounding areas. “We just want a country that works,” said Jana Vasić, a law student among the demonstrators.
Despite multiple resignations, including Prime Minister Miloš Vučević, protesters remain unsatisfied. They demand full transparency regarding the station’s renovation project, prosecution of those responsible, and genuine government accountability. While 16 individuals, including former construction minister Goran Vesić, have been indicted, the lack of trials fuels public outrage.
President Vučić, who personally inaugurated the renovated station in 2022, dismissed opposition leaders as a “criminal cartel” attempting to destabilize the government. He insisted he would not step down, warning that protests would not dictate Serbia’s future.
With no resolution in sight, student leaders vow to continue until their demands are met. “We’ve made progress,” one student said, “but we’re still waiting for real justice.” As tensions rise, the “15th for 15” movement is reshaping Serbia’s political landscape, challenging a government that has long dominated the nation’s institutions.
