Belgrade sees Serbia’s biggest protest in decades

Tens of thousands of protesters are converging on Belgrade for what's expected to be Serbia's largest demonstration in decades. The mass mobilization follows months of student-led protests that began in December after a deadly incident when a railway station roof collapsed in Novi Sad on November 1, killing 15 people.

Protesters arriving expressed hopes for a peaceful demonstration despite growing tensions. President Aleksandar Vučić has instructed police to show restraint while detaining troublemakers and estimates 60,000-80,000 participants, though organizers anticipate higher numbers.

What began as student protests has expanded to include teachers, farmers, and workers in the most significant challenge to Vučić's 12-year rule. The movement has grown into the largest nationwide mobilization since Slobodan Milošević's fall in 2000, with demonstrators blaming governmental corruption and negligence for the Novi Sad tragedy.

Thousands of university students have marched to Belgrade from various regions, receiving support from local residents along their routes. The government has responded by deploying significant police forces in the capital, with Vučić declaring the rally illegal and claiming Western intelligence agencies are behind the unrest.

Raising concerns about potential violence, pro-government paramilitary veterans and individuals with criminal backgrounds have established a camp near the presidential palace. Critics suggest this may be an attempt to provoke confrontations to justify a crackdown.

The European Union has expressed concern regarding human rights and democratic practices in Serbia, urging adherence to EU standards. Protesters remain committed to continuing demonstrations until their demands for justice and reform are addressed, while the international community watches closely, hoping for peaceful proceedings and constructive dialogue.