Serbian cyclists return to hero’s welcome

Thousands of Serbians gathered in Novi Sad to welcome home approximately 50 student protesters who completed an extraordinary 1,300-kilometer cycling journey to Strasbourg. The students were greeted with a red carpet parade, confetti, and flares as they returned from their mission to raise awareness about ongoing anti-government protests in Serbia.

The cycling campaign aimed to bring international attention to demonstrations that began in Novi Sad following a tragic railway station roof collapse last November that killed 16 people. This disaster sparked widespread accusations of government corruption and negligence, fueling months of protests across the country.

During their journey, the students passed through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany, emphasizing their message of unity and persistence. In Strasbourg, they met with officials from the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, seeking support for their cause.

Drone footage captured the celebratory atmosphere as crowds welcomed the cyclists home. During their European journey, the students met with officials from EU bodies in Strasbourg to highlight their concerns about the situation in Serbia.

The student-led movement has evolved into a nationwide phenomenon challenging the government in Belgrade. What began as a response to a specific tragedy has transformed into a broader push for accountability and democratic reforms, with these young cyclists becoming symbols of persistence in the face of perceived government failings.

The enthusiastic welcome in Novi Sad demonstrates the growing public support for the protest movement and signals continued pressure on Serbian authorities to address concerns about corruption and governance.