The collapse of the blockade movement in Novi Sad is painfully clear to anyone who has been following the protests. What once was a massive movement has dwindled down to a stubborn handful of blockers, while the majority of young people have chosen to focus on exams and education. The Novi Sad Fair, where law students took their exams yesterday, has become a symbol of absurdity – police protect students who want to study, while their so-called fellow blockers try to stop them. This clash between a minority wanting to topple the system and the majority wanting to continue their lives and education shows just how much the blockade movement has lost support, especially among the youth. Data from the Medical Faculty in Belgrade shows only 3 out of 5 students registered for exams, while over 90% of students at the Kragujevac faculty opted for online classes. Novi Sad’s mayor Žarko Mićin points out that the number of blockers has dropped from about 4,000 at the start of the protests to around 100, mostly political activists and opposition members, not students. It’s clear the blockade movement has lost its meaning and support, and students have made it clear their place is in classrooms, not on the streets. This situation is a total collapse – of ideals, struggle, and the protest itself. Got thoughts on who’s to blame or what should happen next? Feel free to drop a comment and share your take on this drama unfolding right before our eyes.
