Tens of Thousands Protest in Novi Sad Demanding Accountability from Serbian Government

A protest in Serbia took a chaotic turn when demonstrators, gathered to honor 15 victims of a train station collapse, reportedly experienced panic due to the alleged use of a sonic weapon by security forces. Rights groups and opposition officials claim that such a weapon is illegal in Serbia. According to CNN, multiple audio forensics experts have been consulted regarding the incident, which has drawn significant attention and concern. Over half a million people have signed a petition urging the Serbian government to launch a thorough investigation into whether illegal sonic devices were deployed against the crowd. This escalation of tension comes amid ongoing protests and public outrage related to government actions and safety concerns surrounding the train incident. The use of sonic weapons raises serious human rights issues, and the calls for inquiry highlight the mounting discontent within the Serbian populace. The event marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for accountability and transparency in the country's governance.

On March 4, 2025, chaos unfolded in the Serbian Parliament when opposition lawmakers threw smoke grenades and tear gas in protest against government policies and in support of ongoing student demonstrations. The protests were ignited by a train station roof collapse in December that resulted in 15 fatalities, marking a significant challenge to the current government led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). During a contentious legislative session where the ruling coalition had approved the agenda, some opposition politicians rushed toward the parliamentary speaker, leading to scuffles with security personnel. Live broadcasts captured the scene as colorful smoke filled the chamber. Speaker Ana Brnabic reported that two lawmakers were injured, with one, Jasmina Obradovic of the SNS party, in critical condition following a stroke. The parliament was scheduled to discuss a law increasing funding for universities, a key demand from students currently engaged in protests. Brnabic asserted that the parliament would persist in its duties to defend Serbia despite the turmoil.

Over the past three months, Serbian students have led mass protests against government corruption following a fatal accident at the Novi Sad train station that claimed 15 lives. The protests, which began in Novi Sad, have grown to attract support from various demographics, including pensioners and farmers. Daily vigils feature 15 minutes of silence at 11:52 AM, the time of the accident, serving as a powerful rebuke to officials, including President Aleksandar Vucic, accused of corruption in public infrastructure projects. Students have organized food resources and democratic gatherings in university spaces, promoting a united front without political affiliations. Many participants express pride in their non-partisan stance, which they believe resonates with broader societal discontent over corruption. Jovana Hromis, a 23-year-old student, emphasized their moral duty to enact change, supported by growing public backing. Despite government claims that the protests are fueled by foreign interference, the movement shows no signs of waning, with tens of thousands of participants in recent demonstrations across Belgrade and Novi Sad. The resignation of Novi Sad's mayor, Milos Vucevic, further highlights the political fallout of these unprecedented student-led movements.