Serbia: Novi Sad Tragedy Anniversary & Protests

Serbians commemorate the Novi Sad train station roof collapse anniversary, triggering renewed protests against government. EU accession urged amid public unrest and calls for accountability.

Authorities likewise terminated all rail transport in the nation on Friday, claiming a bomb hazard; however, media reports suggest it was a transfer to prevent residents from getting to the city for the presentations.

Silent Vigil for Victims

A 16-minute silent vigil at the train station was held at 11:52 a.m, the moment of the collapse, to recognize each of the victims. A mass demo will also follow Saturday’s tribute, as thousands of individuals throughout Serbia have concerned Novi Sad to sign up with the celebration.

EU Accession Negotiations

Serbia became an EU prospect country in 2012, and it later on opened inauguration settlements with the EU in 2013. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen lately urged Vučić and Serbia to “get concrete” concerning joining.

Tens of countless Serbians went back to the streets Saturday to recognize the targets of the roof collapse at Novi Sad’s train terminal in 2014, which eliminated 16 people and triggered nationwide demonstrations marked by cops physical violence and requires the government’s resignation.

Escalating National Protests

What began as a need for accountability over a tragedy criticized on federal government neglect swiftly escalated right into nationwide objections over the past year. Prevalent cops brutality fueled the agitation, eventually prompting Head of state Aleksandar Vučić to try to soothe the outrage forcibly Prime Minister Miloš Vučević to resign together with the remainder of his cabinet.