On 28 June 2025, Serbia’s national holiday Vidovdan, tens of thousands of citizens joined a mass protest in Belgrade demanding early elections, government accountability, and systemic reforms. Initiated by students and supported by teachers, farmers, and civil society actors, the protest represents the culmination of the eight-month movement sparked by the deadly Novi Sad station collapse in November 2024. In a symbolic move at 21:00, student organizers announced the transition of the protest into a citizen-led demonstration, stating that the future of the movement should be decided by all participants. Tensions escalated after provocations from pro-government supporters in the parallel rally dubbed “Ćaciland,” including objects thrown at protesters. Shortly after, police and gendarmerie units began dispersing crowds using tear gas and batons. At least 28 people were injured, and dozens were detained. The use of force, mobility restrictions, and pre-emptive arrests have raised alarms among civil society over increasing repression during a key national commemoration. Read more here.
Sources: Politico; Al Jazeera; NovaRs
