Mass Protests Planned as Serbia Marks Anniversary of Train Station Collapse
As Serbia prepares to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the deadly Belgrade train station collapse, nationwide protests are being organized to demand justice for the victims and accountability from the government. The disaster, which killed 14 and injured dozens, has become a rallying cry against government negligence and corruption.
A National Tragedy Ignites Public Outrage
On October 12, 2023, a section of Belgrade’s central train station collapsed during rush hour, burying commuters under debris. Survivors described scenes of chaos as emergency crews worked for days to recover victims. Investigations later revealed that the crumbling infrastructure had been flagged for years, but warnings were ignored.
The tragedy exposed Serbia’s failing infrastructure and allegations of corruption in public projects. Critics accuse the government of investing in costly developments like Belgrade Waterfront while neglecting critical safety repairs.
Government Faces Backlash Over Lack of Accountability
Despite promises of transparency, no high-ranking officials have been held responsible for the collapse. Opposition leaders, including MP Marinika Tepić, claim the government has engaged in cover-ups and empty reforms.
“This was not an accident—it was a crime,” Tepić stated. “Victims’ families are still waiting for justice.”
Many survivors and victims’ families report delayed or denied compensation, fueling public anger.
Nationwide Protests Demand Justice
Under the slogan “We Remember, We Demand Justice,” activists have called for mass demonstrations in Belgrade and other cities. Protesters plan to march from the ruins of the train station to the Serbian parliament, demanding:
- Accountability for the collapse
- Infrastructure safety reforms
- An end to government corruption
Organizers say the protests reflect broader frustrations, including eroding press freedom and authoritarian governance.
Government Deflects Criticism
The ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), led by President Aleksandar Vučić, has dismissed protesters as “foreign-backed agitators.” State media has downplayed the anniversary, instead promoting new infrastructure projects.
Critics argue these announcements are distractions.
“They build new railways while old death traps remain,” said engineer Ljubica Petrović, who had warned about the station’s instability years before the collapse.
Will Protests Force Change?
With public discontent rising, the protests could test the government’s grip on power. Past demonstrations have failed to bring reform, but activists hope the emotional weight of the tragedy will spur action.
“If we stay silent, more will die from neglect,” said Ana Jovanović, who lost her brother in the collapse.
As Serbia remembers the victims, the world watches to see whether grief will turn into accountability—or if the government will continue evading responsibility.
Follow NextMinuteNews for live updates on the protests.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews Belgrade Bureau
