Serbia’s student protests persist after deadly train station accident

By Lejla Biogradlija

ANKARA (AA) - Student-led protests against the Serbian government continue across the country following the Nov. 1 collapse of a canopy at a railway station in the northern city of Novi Sad that killed 15 people.

The collapse occurred on Nov. 1 when a concrete canopy at the station gave way, sparking outrage among students who blame the government for negligence. Protests have spread to cities including Belgrade, Nis, Krusevac, Sabac, and others.

Thousands of demonstrators held a 15-minute moment of silence under the slogan “Stop Serbia” to honor the victims. In some areas, traffic was halted for 15 minutes in a symbolic gesture.

Protesters are calling for greater transparency regarding the construction and renovation of the train station, claiming that released documents are incomplete. They are demanding a thorough investigation into the incident and punishment for those responsible.

The movement has also included calls for the release of protesters detained during previous demonstrations.

- Boycott movement by students

In response to the public outcry, two government ministers, Construction Minister Goran Vesic and Serbian Foreign Trade Minister Tomislav Momirovic, resigned.

Authorities detained 11 individuals, including Vesic, as part of a prosecutor-led investigation.

Negligence has been cited as a possible factor in the collapse, with reports highlighting issues during the station’s renovation in 2021.

Student protests have continued, with demonstrators boycotting classes in a movement that has spread to schools and universities across Serbia.

The protests have drawn support from academics, opposition lawmakers, and artists.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic urged students to end the protests and return to their classes, saying their demands have been addressed.

*Writing by Seda Sevencan