Vidovdan in Belgrade: Student Protest or Chaos Brewing?
Belgrade is on the edge of an explosion! The Students’ Blockade has announced a protest on Vidovdan, June 28, demanding early parliamentary elections and the end of the gathering in Pionirski Park, where they have been camping for months. The rally is scheduled for 6 PM at Slavija Square and will last until 9 PM, but what happens after? The students claim they are not responsible for what may happen after the official end of the protest but warn they are ready to take all forms of civil disobedience if their demands are not met.
The State Won’t Back Down: Vučić and Police Ready to Intervene
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has made it clear that the state will intervene only if forced but that no one will be harmed. Police Director Dragan Vasiljević and Interior Minister Ivica Dačić have appealed for peaceful conduct and warned that violence will not be tolerated. The police are prepared to respond to any attempts to storm state institutions, media houses, or private property.
Student Movement: We Are Not Terrorists, We Are the Voice of the People
Students from the Faculty of Philosophy emphasize they do not call for violence and that their protest is not just a student issue but a broader social front. Luka Lalošević from the Students’ Blockade says ultimatums will not scare the students, and they will remain in Pionirski Park until their demands are met. They have also published a detailed protest program, including first aid points and basic guidelines for participants.
Repression and Accusations: Arrests and Media Campaign
Ahead of the protest, authorities arrested five people suspected of planning violent regime change and overthrowing the constitutional order. Regime-controlled media call the students terrorists, fascists, and Nazis, while the arrested individuals’ lawyer claims political persecution without real evidence. Vučić called the protests a “colored revolution” and accused the blockers of false stories and tricks.
Vidovdan as a Symbol of Resistance and Conflict
Vidovdan, an important Serbian holiday, has this year become a symbol of conflict between students and the government. Vučić has called on the youth to save Serbia and said the state will show strength if necessary. The students, on the other hand, do not give up their demands and are ready to fight for change.
Conclusion: Who Will Win This Clash?
Belgrade is on its feet, and tension is rising. Will the students succeed in forcing the government to dialogue, or will the state show force? Will the peaceful protest turn into chaos? All eyes are on June 28, Vidovdan, when the fate of the protest and possibly Serbia’s future will be decided.
What do you think? Are the students right, or is this just another political show? Drop a comment and let your voice be heard in this crazy story!
