Protests erupted in Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, with tens of thousands rallying against President Aleksandar Vucic. Clashes broke out between protesters and riot police following a large anti-government demonstration on Saturday.

Dissent Against Vucic’s Rule

While the main rally in Belgrade’s central square was peaceful, young demonstrators later clashed with riot police. Protesters hurled flares, rocks, and bottles at police, prompting the use of pepper spray by officers. Police set up anti-riot vehicles to block the protesters’ return, leading to a quick end to the violence.

Earlier, crowds streamed into Belgrade, many displaying banners and wearing T-shirts with the slogan “Students win,” representing the youth movement. Cars from other Serbian towns also poured into the city, indicating widespread support for the protest.

Political Unrest and Government Reaction

President Vucic faces ongoing opposition, with protests persisting over a year since they began. They initially demanded accountability for a train station tragedy in northern Serbia in November 2024, which resulted in 16 deaths. Vucic criticized protesters via Instagram, accusing them of showing a violent nature.

Anti-corruption protests led to the resignation of then-Prime Minister Milos Vucevic in January 2025, despite governmental pushback against demonstrators. Allegations of negligence and corruption are linked to the train station collapse during renovation with Chinese contractors.

Calls for Change

Protesters called for early elections and adherence to the rule of law, accusing the government of corruption. Prosecutor Bojana Savovic emphasized the need for a functioning, lawful state, asserting that selective law implementation creates a mafia-like governing structure.

Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic dismissed the student rally, stating it lacked novelty. She cited police estimates of 34,300 attendees and claimed democracy was prevailing.

Government Tactics and International Reaction

Tension first flared near a loyalist park camp outside the presidency, set up by Vucic as a protective measure. Riot police shielded this area, where loud folk music played.

Serbia’s railway company halted all trains to and from Belgrade, apparently to hinder protester travel. The president faces scrutiny for his hard-line tactics, including arbitrary arrests. Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty, criticized Serbia’s rights situation, noting police protection of attackers targeting journalists and protesters.

Serbia’s democratic backsliding may impact its European Union membership aspirations, risking €1.5 billion in EU funding.

Ongoing Struggles

Slavija Square, where the recent protest took place, was a site of another major protest in March 2025. That event ended unexpectedly, with allegations of sonic weapon use against peaceful demonstrators, a claim the government denies.

The youth movement’s stance on justice and law resonates with citizens weary of continual political crises. Students now aim to challenge Vucic in upcoming elections, potentially held between September and November. The president’s rhetoric brands critics as foreign agents, increasing political division.

Protester Maja Milas Markovic expressed faith in the movement, credited students for unifying participants, and voiced her hope for a normal life.