The tragic accident on the 1st of November 2024 in Novi Sad, Serbia, has sparked a wave of change, particularly among the youth, leading to the largest student-led protests in Serbia’s modern history.
Following a peaceful commemoration by students from the Faculty of Dramatic Arts in Belgrade, which was met with aggression, students organised a blockade of their faculty, issuing demands for accountability and justice from their government. These demands included transparency regarding the railway station’s reconstruction, resignations and criminal charges for those responsible, the release of detained activists, and increased funding for public universities. Since then, these demands have been supported by over 60 faculties, as well as an increasing number of private institutions and high schools across Serbia.
Despite the peaceful nature of these actions, students have faced harassment, physical attacks, arrests, and even incidents where they were struck by vehicles during the demonstrations.
On December 22, 2024, the protests reached an important moment as more than 100,000 people gathered at Slavija Square in Belgrade. In complete silence, they commemorated the 15 victims—a powerful statement of unity and grief. The movement has since gained momentum, with students calling for a general strike on January 24, 2025, urging citizens to halt economic activity for the day.
Additionally, further strikes and mass blockades have been planned for the near future, including actions that took place in major cities around the world, such as Brussels, London, Budapest and Amsterdam, over the final weekend of January.
The ongoing situation also impacts many Erasmus+ students currently studying in Serbia. However, they have shown an understanding of the circumstances and are aware that their fellow students, professors, and Erasmus+ coordinators are working towards a solution. Many Erasmus+ students have also shown solidarity by participating in the blockades or attending related activities during their time in Serbia.
Youth movements such as these highlight the essential role students play in shaping a better future. Their courage in demanding accountability and transparency serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of collective action.
As the largest student and alumni organisation in Europe, the Erasmus Student Network calls upon all—local citizens and the international community alike—to stand in solidarity with Serbian students. Together, we can ensure their voices are heard and that their courage brings about meaningful change.
The voices of young people should never be ignored. The student movement deserves support and protection from all forms of political and physical persecution, media defamation, and violations of academic freedom.
While Serbia’s legal framework on freedom of assembly and association nominally aligns with European standards, its enforcement has remained inconsistent and selective. Authorities have frequently restricted the very rights guaranteed under national law. We urge all institutions and the Serbian Government to uphold the universal rights of students to peaceful assembly, protest, and freedom of expression, ensuring that open and respectful dialogue is maintained.
Cover photo credits: Darko Vojinović, The Associated Press
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