Mass protests scheduled in Serbia to commemorate the anniversary of the train station collapse.

In a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for accountability, tens of thousands gathered in Novi Sad, Serbia, to commemorate the victims of a tragic accident that claimed 16 lives exactly one year ago. The catastrophic collapse of a newly renovated railway canopy not only ignited collective grief but has also fueled ongoing demands for transparency and governance reform throughout the nation, positioning the rally as a critical moment in Serbia’s socio-political landscape.

Tens of thousands of people converged on Novi Sad, Serbia, for a solemn commemoration of the victims of a tragic accident that occurred one year ago and resulted in the loss of 16 lives. This gathering is part of a series of regular student-led protests that have arisen since the collapse of the canopy at the recently renovated railway station in the country’s second-largest city, which took place on November 1, 2024. This disaster has since become a powerful symbol of corruption deeply rooted in Serbia’s infrastructure and governance.

Initially, protesters sought a transparent investigation into the catastrophe; however, their demands quickly evolved into a call for early elections and broader governmental accountability. Students, who planned for what they labeled the “largest commemorative gathering,” have been arriving in Novi Sad since Friday, using a variety of means including cars, bicycles, or on foot. Some have even marched from Belgrade, covering roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) over the course of 16 days, showcasing their determination for change.

As the marchers entered Novi Sad, local residents greeted them warmly, blowing whistles and waving flags as signs of solidarity and respect for the lives lost. Those attending the commemorative event were visibly moved by the show of support, highlighting a community united in sorrow and resolve.

Dijana Hrka, who tragically lost her 27-year-old son in the accident, expressed her deep yearning for justice, stating her hopes for closure and understanding, so no other mother would have to endure such pain. The resonance of her words captures the emotional stakes of the protests, which have already led to significant political consequences, including the resignation of the prime minister and the dissolution of his government. However, President Aleksandar Vucic remains firmly in his position, despite widespread protests aimed at his administration.

In past statements, Vucic has labeled demonstrators as foreign agents inciting a coup, with supporters of his Serbian Progressive Party suggesting conspiracy theories regarding the station’s collapse. However, in a surprising move, Vucic recently apologized for his past remarks, urging dialogue with the students and protesters and calling for a unified approach to address their grievances.

The commemoration in Novi Sad will take place at 11:52 AM local time, precisely when the tragedy struck, marked by 16 minutes of silence in honor of the victims. Legal proceedings have followed the incident, with thirteen individuals, including the former construction minister Goran Vesic, facing charges linked to the disaster, while a separate anti-corruption probe continues alongside an investigation supported by the European Union into the possible misuse of EU funds regarding the project.

In observance of this tragic anniversary, the Serbian government has declared Saturday a day of national mourning. During this time, Patriarch Porfirije of the Serbian Orthodox Church will lead a mass in Belgrade for the victims, emphasizing unity and remembrance. The EU delegation in Serbia has also urged restraint and non-violence on this somber occasion, highlighting a collective responsibility to foster peace in a charged environment. Aleksandar Popov, a Serbian political analyst, underscored the pervasive issue of corruption in the country, suggesting that the solutions may extend into the billions of euros involving large infrastructure initiatives.

While the protests have largely remained peaceful, they reflect an escalating frustration with a government that many perceive as having monopolized key state institutions, including the judiciary. The stark contrast between organized, peaceful mourning and occasional outbursts of violence points to the significant societal pressures calling for accountability and reform in Serbia.

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