Just days before the parliamentary elections in Serbia, tens of thousands of opposition supporters mobilized to demand an end to the administration led by long-time President Aleksandar Vucic. Supporters of the Student List demonstrated through the streets of Belgrade on Thursday evening, ultimately gathering at the city’s Slavija Square, where reports indicate roughly 150,000 people participated in the rally.
The Student List is campaigning to dismantle the government of Vucic’s right-wing populist Serbian Progress Party (SNS), which has been in power for more than 14 years. Although Vucic stepped down from his presidential post in late September, he is now competing for the role of head of government-a position he held prior to his presidency.
The protest movement traces its origins back to the collapse of a train station awning in Novi Sad in November 2024, an incident that claimed the lives of 16 people. Initially, demonstrators demanded a thorough investigation into the disaster, but the focus subsequently expanded to encompass general criticism of the ruling government and issues of corruption.
In response, Vucic characterized the demonstrations as an internationally funded coup attempt, urging his supporters to protect the state and overcome the opposition. However, the opposition coalition has accused the ruling party of rampant misuse of public funds and intimidation during the election campaign. While forecasts remain uncertain, expectations are high that the Student List could achieve a significant electoral result.
