Serbia’s Anti-Corruption Protests: A Turning Point in 2025?
From Student Protests to Nationwide Rebellion: What’s Next for Serbia?
Serbia is facing its largest wave of political unrest in decades, as mass protests against corruption shake the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). What began as outrage over a deadly accident in Novi Sad has transformed into a nationwide movement, forcing the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic. Now, protesters are demanding deeper political change, putting pressure on President Aleksandar Vucic and his administration.
What Started the Protests in Serbia?
The protests started in November 2024 after a railway station roof collapse in Novi Sad killed 15 people, an incident many saw as a symptom of systemic corruption. Initially led by students, the movement quickly expanded, drawing in farmers, taxi drivers, artists, and public sector workers. The government’s response – dismissal, threats of violence, and accusations of foreign interference – only fuelled public anger, turning a local tragedy into a national crisis.
Is Serbia Headed for More Political Violence?
With tensions running high, reports of violence between protesters and pro-government activists are increasing. Pro-SNS groups have been accused of targeting demonstrators, with multiple cases of individuals deliberately driving vehicles into crowds. The Serbian government’s inflammatory rhetoric—suggesting the protests are part of a Western-backed coup—risks escalating these clashes further.
In this report
The Protest Tipping Point: How a local tragedy ignited a nationwide uprising
Escalation Risks: The growing threat of political violence in Serbia
The Economic Fallout: How road blockades could disrupt trade and transport across Europe
The Future of the SNS: Will snap elections help Vucic hold onto power, or accelerate his downfall?
