Mass Protests Erupt in Serbia on Anniversary of Novi Sad Train Station Tragedy
Serbia braces for large-scale demonstrations as the country marks one year since the catastrophic collapse of Novi Sad’s train station overhead walkway—a disaster that killed 17 and injured 30. Protesters demand justice for victims, infrastructure reforms, and government accountability amid claims of corruption and negligence.
The 2023 Train Station Collapse: A National Tragedy
On June 12, 2023, a heavily used pedestrian bridge at Novi Sad’s train station crumbled during rush hour, burying commuters in debris. Investigations exposed decades of ignored maintenance warnings, with nearly 40% of Serbia’s railway infrastructure deemed “critically unsafe” in an independent report.
- Failure to Act: Engineers had flagged structural weaknesses years earlier.
- Victims’ Outcry: Families accused the government of prioritizing corruption over safety.
- EU Pressure: The European Union urged Serbia to address infrastructure deficiencies to continue accession talks.
Government Inaction Fuels Public Anger
Despite Prime Minister Ana Brnabić’s pledges for reform, little progress has been made:
– No High-Level Prosecutions: Only low-level officials faced consequences.
– Stalled Infrastructure Funds: Critics allege money was diverted to politically connected contractors.
– Protests Escalate: Victims’ families and activists vow to “fight until justice is served.”
Key Protest Demands
Organizers have outlined three non-negotiable calls:
1. Criminal Charges for officials who ignored safety warnings.
2. Transparent Infrastructure Fund to repair railways and public transport.
3. Full Compensation for victims’ families and survivors.
Political Fallout and Opposition Backlash
The protests arrive amid rising tensions between President Aleksandar Vučić’s government and opposition leaders, who label the disaster “a symbol of systemic failure.” State media dismisses demonstrations as “politically motivated,” while activists insist they represent grassroots demands for change.
What to Expect on June 12
- Belgrade March: Thousands will rally outside the Ministry of Transport.
- Security Measures: Police on high alert amid fears of clashes.
- EU Scrutiny: Continued pressure for accountability.
“The Novi Sad collapse was no accident—it was a crime of negligence,” said activist Marko Jovanović.
