Over 100,000 People Participate in Serbia’s Largest Anti-Government Protest in Belgrade

Over 100,000 People Participate in Serbia’s Largest Anti-Government Protest in Belgrade

A massive protest took place in Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, as part of an anti-corruption movement. Defying the rain, at least 100,000 people joined the demonstration on Saturday, making it one of the largest protests in the country's history.

Thousands of protesters, waving flags, occupied major streets in the capital, bringing the city to a standstill. Sporadic clashes occurred between protesters and the police, prompting university students—who had been leading the peaceful movement for four months—to announce an end to the demonstration, citing concerns over safety.

However, while most protesters dispersed, thousands remained on the streets, escalating tensions. Police reported that the protest reached a peak of 107,000 participants, while independent Serbian media claimed the number was even higher.

The movement began last November after a railway station roof collapsed in northern Serbia, killing 15 people. Protesters across the country blamed the tragedy on government corruption, negligence, and violations of safety regulations, demanding accountability.

Ahead of the protest, President Aleksandar Vučić warned of potential unrest and threatened severe action against any disturbances. Several journalists from neighboring Croatia and Slovenia were denied entry into Serbia, with authorities claiming their presence posed a "security threat."

Vučić dismissed the protesters' demands, alleging that the movement was a conspiracy by Western intelligence agencies aimed at removing him from power. However, he provided no evidence to support his claim.

This massive anti-government protest marks a turning point in Serbian politics. Authorities halted several transportation services to prevent people from reaching the demonstration, but thousands still took to the streets to express their anger.

Protesters lit flares and marched past Serbia’s parliament building, signaling a new political crisis in the country’s recent history.