Opposition Protest in Serbian Parliament – Smoke Bombs and Flares Thrown, Multiple Lawmakers Injured

Opposition Protest in Serbian Parliament – Smoke Bombs and Flares Thrown, Multiple Lawmakers Injured

Belgrade, March 4, 2025: A protest erupted in the Serbian Parliament yesterday when opposition lawmakers threw smoke bombs and flares inside the parliament to show support for government opposition and student protests. In the ensuing chaos, at least two lawmakers were injured, one of whom is in critical condition.

The spring session of parliament began on Tuesday, and after the ruling coalition led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) approved the agenda, opposition lawmakers rushed towards the parliamentary speaker and scuffled with security personnel. During the altercation, they threw smoke bombs and tear gas, causing black and pink smoke inside the parliament. Such violent scenes have been witnessed in the Serbian parliament for decades, where brawls, water-throwing, and protests have been frequent.

Speaker Ana Brnabic confirmed that two lawmakers were injured, one of whom, Jasmina Obradovic of the SNS party, suffered a stroke and is in critical condition. “The parliament will continue its work and defend Serbia,” she said during the session.

Meanwhile, opposition members protested inside the parliament by whistling and sounding sirens. The student-led protests, which have been ongoing for four months, have gained support from teachers, farmers, and other groups, becoming a significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic’s decade-long rule. Many Serbians have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s corruption and inefficiency. Outside the parliament building, protesters stood in silence to honor the 15 people killed in a roof collapse at the Novi Sad railway station. This incident triggered the protest movement, with a major rally planned for March 15 in Belgrade.

On Tuesday, the parliament was supposed to pass a law that would increase funding for universities, one of the main demands of students who have been blocking faculties since December. There was also scheduled discussion on Prime Minister Milos Vucevic’s resignation.

However, additional items put on the agenda by the governing coalition angered the opposition, leading to chaos inside the parliament.