Serbian Students Ring in New Year with Protests, Demanding Justice
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Student Protests Persist in Serbia Despite Government Claims of Resolution
thousands of students and their supporters took to the streets of Belgrade on New Year’s Eve, continuing a wave of demonstrations that have gripped Serbia in recent weeks. The defiant crowds, unfazed by the frigid weather and dense fog, gathered in a show of solidarity with students from the University of Novi Sad who are demanding accountability for a deadly canopy collapse at the city’s train station. The New Year’s Eve protest followed a massive rally just over a week earlier that drew tens of thousands of people to the streets of the Serbian capital, marking one of the largest public gatherings in recent years. these demonstrations were ignited by a tragic incident in August when a concrete canopy collapsed at the Novi Sad train station, killing two people and injuring several others.While Serbian authorities have indicted 13 individuals, including a former government minister, over the collapse, protesters argue that these charges do not go far enough. President Aleksandar Vucic has asserted that all student demands have been met, stating that he is “ready to talk” but claiming that the protesters have “no arguments” and refusing to engage in dialog. “The prosecutors fulfilled the last of their demands, all documents they wanted have been published and nothing happened,” Vucic insisted, adding that he would not be deterred by street protests.## Archyde Interviw: Serbian Students Spark Change
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to Archyde. Tonight we’re discussing the powerful protests sweeping Serbia, where tens of thousands of students took to the streets on New year’s Eve, demanding change from their government. Joining us to shed light on this movement is [Alex Reed Name], a leading voice among the student protestors in Belgrade. Thank you for being with us.
**Alex Reed:** It’s significant to be here and share the stories of my fellow students.
**Interviewer:** The sights and sounds coming from Serbia are captivating – massive rallies, chants for justice, even forgoing traditional festivities. Can you paint a picture for our viewers of what motivated this exceptional turnout, especially among young people?
**Alex Reed:** The canopy collapse in Novi Sad on November 1st was a tragedy that ripped through our community. It was a senseless loss of life, and the government’s response felt inadequate and dismissive. It exposed a deeper issue – a lack of accountability and transparency, a disregard for basic safety, and a system that puts profits before people. That event ignited a spark, and the anger and frustration have been simmering ever as.
**Interviewer:** So, the protests are not simply a reaction to this specific event but a culmination of broader grievances?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. young people in Serbia are facing numerous challenges – limited job opportunities, lack of access to quality education and healthcare, and a sense of being unheard by those in power. We are demanding systemic change, a government that truly represents its people and prioritizes their well-being.
**Interviewer:** What are some of the specific demands being raised by the student movement?
**Alex Reed:** We are calling for thorough investigations into the canopy collapse and holding those responsible accountable. We demand greater transparency and accountability from the government in all areas. We are advocating for reforms in education, healthcare, and the economy to create a fairer and more lasting future for all Serbians.
**Interviewer:** how have Serbian authorities responded to thes demonstrations?
**Alex Reed:** Sadly, the initial response has been marked by attempts to downplay the protests and dismiss our demands. There have been instances of police intimidation and violence against peaceful protestors, which only serves to further fuel our determination.
**Interviewer:** what message would you like to send to the Serbian government and the international community?
**Alex Reed:** We, the students of serbia, are not going anywhere. We will continue to raise our voices until our demands are met. We call on the Serbian government to listen to its people, address our concerns, and work towards creating a better future for Serbia. We also urge the international community to stand in solidarity with our struggle for justice and democracy.
**Interviewer:** Your words are powerful, [Alex Reed name]. Thank you for sharing your story and for your courage in fighting for a better future.
## Archyde Interview: Serbian Students Spark Change
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to Archyde. Tonight we’re discussing the powerful protests sweeping Serbia, sparked by the tragic canopy collapse in Novi Sad and fueled by broader discontent with the government.
Joining us today is Marko petrović, a student leader at the University of Novi Sad and a key figure in these demonstrations. Marko, thank you for joining us.
**Marko:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Can you tell our viewers what exactly triggered these protests and what are the key demands of the student-led movement?
**Marko:** The immediate trigger was indeed the senseless tragedy in Novi Sad, where two people lost their lives due to crumbling infrastructure. This highlighted the rampant corruption and negligence within the government,issues that have long plagued our society.
We demand a thorough and transparent inquiry into the canopy collapse, ensuring those responsible are held accountable, nonetheless of their position. We also demand systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies from happening again, including stricter safety regulations and increased transparency in public construction projects.
**Interviewer:** These protests have been described as some of the largest in recent serbian history. What does this widespread support suggest about the wider sentiment towards the current government?
**Marko:** The scale and duration of these protests demonstrate the deep-seated dissatisfaction with President Vucic’s autocratic rule. people are tired of corruption, lack of transparency, and the suppression of dissenting voices.
The government’s response, dismissing our concerns and refusing meaningful dialog, only adds fuel to the fire.It has become clear that the students are not alone in their fight for a fairer and more democratic Serbia. Farmers, professors, artists – people from all walks of life are joining our cause.
**Interviewer:** President Vucic has claimed that all student demands have been met and that he is “ready to talk,” yet he refuses to engage in dialogue with the protestors. What is your response to his statement?
**Marko:** His claims are disingenuous. While some minor steps have been taken, they do not address the root of the problems. Indictments alone cannot bring back the victims or undo the systemic failures that led to this tragedy.
A real commitment to change requires genuine dialogue,a willingness to listen to the concerns of the people,and a commitment to implementing meaningful reforms.
**Interviewer:** What message do you have for the international community?
**Marko:** We urge the international community to pay close attention to what is happening in Serbia. The students and the broader population are fighting for fundamental democratic values and a brighter future for our country.
We need your support in holding the Serbian government accountable and ensuring that our voices are heard.
**Interviewer:** Marko Petrović, thank you for your time and your unwavering commitment to justice and accountability. We will be following the developments in Serbia closely.
**Marko:** Thank you.
