Dozens of protesters clashed with riot police in Serbia on Saturday, as thousands rallied against the government and called for early parliamentary elections during a large demonstration opposing President Aleksandar Vučić.
Students lead protests over corruption and negligence
The rally followed nearly eight months of student-led demonstrations triggered by public frustration over alleged government corruption and mismanagement.
Crowds gathered in Slavija Square in central Belgrade, chanting, “We want elections!”
Riot police surrounded key government buildings and a nearby camp set up by Vučić supporters. Tensions ran high throughout the day.
Police said they had detained dozens of what they called “hooligans”, but did not give a specific number.
“We see elections as the only solution to this crisis,” one student speaker told the crowd. “The government is working against its own people. As of 28 June 2025, we no longer recognise their authority.”
At the end of the rally, organisers encouraged demonstrators to “take freedom into your own hands”.
The protests began after the collapse of a newly renovated railway station canopy in November, which killed 16 people. Many blamed the tragedy on poor construction standards and corruption in infrastructure projects.
“We’re here because enough is enough,” said student Darko Kovačević. “This has gone on too long. Corruption is everywhere.”
Government response and political climate
President Vučić and his Serbian Progressive Party have rejected calls for early elections. They have accused protesters of plotting unrest under foreign influence, but have not provided evidence.
Authorities have cracked down on striking universities and increased pressure on independent media. The goal appears to be to reduce support for the protests.
Although turnout dropped in recent weeks, Saturday’s rally showed that support for the movement remains strong. Demonstrations have continued nearly every day for the past eight months.
Police, who operate under Vučić’s government, estimated the turnout at 36,000 at the start of the protest.
Interior Minister Ivica Dačić said some participants attacked officers, and that police acted to restore order.
The protest took place on St. Vitus Day, a national holiday that commemorates a 14th-century battle in Kosovo. The day holds deep historical and cultural significance for many Serbs.
Vučić, a former nationalist, has been in power for more than a decade. Although he claims to support EU membership for Serbia, critics say he has undermined democratic freedoms while building closer ties with Russia and China.
Serbia’s next general elections are scheduled for 2027.
