Student protests spread across the Balkans

Widespread student protests have erupted across the Balkans, with demonstrations in Bosnia, Montenegro, and Serbia highlighting shared grievances over government corruption and institutional negligence. The movement gained momentum following recent tragedies in each country.

In Bosnia, hundreds gathered in Sarajevo to protest the government's handling of October floods that claimed 27 lives, including 19 in Donja Jablanica where an illegal quarry collapsed. Protesters demand accountability and question the delayed distribution of international aid.

Serbian students continue their protests, triggered by a November railway station canopy collapse that killed 15 people in Novi Sad. The demonstrations have evolved into a broader challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's decade-long rule, with daily silent vigils honoring the victims.

Montenegro has joined the regional uprising, with students calling for the removal of security officials following two mass shootings that killed 23 people in less than three years. Protesters hold daily 23-minute silent blockades commemorating the victims.

The movement has garnered support beyond the Balkans, with solidarity demonstrations emerging in Croatia, Slovenia, and cities with significant former Yugoslav populations across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the European Union.

These protests reflect deeper issues in the region, where countries still grapple with the aftermath of the 1990s Yugoslav wars and struggle with EU-mandated reforms. Student leaders emphasize the importance of unity and persistence in achieving systemic change, with Sarajevo student Sumeja Durakovic noting the effectiveness of Serbia's massive demonstrations.

The wave of activism represents a significant challenge to established political systems, with young people increasingly vocal about ending three decades of perceived corruption and mismanagement in their respective countries.