Large-scale anti-government protests have erupted across Serbia on 28 June, with nearly 140,000 people gathering in Belgrade. Demonstrators, including students, farmers, teachers, and civil society groups, demanded early elections and an end to President Aleksandar Vučić’s 12-year rule. The crowd chanted slogans such as “We want elections…” as the tensions mounted.
Clashes broke out between protesters and police after the official rally ended. Riot police used tear gas and stun grenades. Protesters threw rocks and other objects. Over the weekend, dozens of demonstrators were arrested.
The Serbia Medical Association reported at least eight deaths and over 400 injuries, including gunshot wounds. Amnesty Kenya claimed the actual death toll could be higher. The state authorities have condemned the violence and warned of further arrests.
President Vučić alleged that the protests were part of a foreign-backed effort to destabilize the country. He iterated that those responsible for the unrest, would be prosecuted. Five individuals have already been detained earlier for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government.
Since late 2024, Serbia has witnessed sustained protests following the collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad that killed 16 people. Protesters blame the disaster on government corruption. The incident led to the resignation of the former Prime Minister, but demonstrations continued across sectors, including education and agriculture.
Critics have accused President Vučić of centralizing the power, limiting media freedom, and tolerating corruption and organized crime. The ruling party, Serbian Progressive Party holds 156 of 250 seats in Parliament. The country is set to go for both presidential and parliamentary election in 2027.
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫: The article has reference to open sources including Al Jazeera, and the BBC.