Student Protests in Serbia: Ultimatum Expired, Vučić and Brnabić Stand Firm
For nearly eight months, students in Serbia have been blocking faculties and protesting over the collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad railway station, which killed 16 people. Their demands are clear: call for early parliamentary elections and end the counter-protests by students supporting the government.
Ultimatum Expired, Reactions Are Fierce
Students gave the Serbian government an ultimatum that expired on June 28 at 9 PM. Following this, protests peaked at Slavija Square in Belgrade, where thousands gathered. However, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić immediately rejected the ultimatum, stating that Serbia “is not a handful of grain” and does not accept ultimatums. Vučić also warned of expected violence at the protests and assured that the state will be protected.
Prime Minister Ana Brnabić escalated the rhetoric further, accusing students of terrorism and calls for civil war, while the Rector of the University of Belgrade, Vladan Đokić, was criticized for a speech at the protest, allegedly aware that violence was planned.
Police and Repression
Police and gendarmerie intervened at multiple locations in Belgrade, and students called on citizens to send them footage of police and thugs’ violence. Several people were arrested on charges of planning violent regime change, including war veterans and former police officers. Pro-government media and authorities accuse students of a “colored revolution” and foreign influence.
Cultural Counter-Protest and Media Campaign
In front of the Serbian Parliament, a counter-protest called “Students 2.0” was organized, featuring literary and artistic programs, supported by the government and the Serbian Progressive Party. Pro-government media wage a propaganda war, portraying students as enemies of the state and the people.
Why Is This Happening?
It all started with the tragedy in Novi Sad, but the protests evolved into a broader demand for political change and government accountability. Students demand the dissolution of parliament and new elections, but the government refuses to yield, using repressive methods and fear-mongering rhetoric.
What’s Next?
The situation is tense and uncertain. While students refuse to back down, the government prepares for possible escalation of violence. This conflict is not just a fight for justice but for Serbia’s future. Will the students succeed in changing the system, or will they be crushed by repression? Time will tell.
What do you think? Are the students heroes or a problem? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
