Thousands of students and supporters arrived in Belgrade on Wednesday evening, October 21, after marching for days from cities across Serbia. They were welcomed by cheering crowds ahead of a major election rally scheduled for Thursday.
The streets of Serbia’s capital filled with students, citizens, and supporters of the student-led movement that has challenged President Aleksandar Vučić’s government for nearly two years.
Groups of marchers traveled on foot from Novi Sad, Šabac, Valjevo, Gornji Milanovac, Zaječar, and other communities, converging on central Belgrade.
Large crowds gathered outside the University of Belgrade Rector’s Office at Students’ Square, where participants were greeted with applause, music, fireworks, and chants calling for political change.
From Student Protests to a National Political Movement
The student movement emerged following the November 2024 collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad, which killed 16 people.
The tragedy sparked nationwide demonstrations over government accountability, corruption, and public safety.
What began as student protests gradually developed into a broader political movement demanding institutional reforms, greater transparency, and democratic accountability.
Students organized university blockades, demonstrations, and marches across the country, attracting support from citizens of different generations.
Belgrade Prepares for a Major Rally
Wednesday’s gatherings are a prelude to a large rally scheduled for Thursday, October 22, at Slavija Square.
The event, organized under the slogan “Victory Calls” (Pobeda zove), will mark the final campaign gathering of the student-backed electoral list, “Students Win.”
Organizers have announced that participants will gather at several locations across Belgrade before marching toward Slavija Square, where the main rally is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
The event comes just three days before Serbia’s parliamentary elections on Sunday, October 25.
A Crucial Moment for Serbia
The student-led movement has become a prominent political challenger to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party.
President Aleksandar Vučić and his political allies have accused elements of the protest movement of receiving foreign support, allegations rejected by student organizers.
Supporters of the student movement argue that Serbia needs stronger democratic institutions, greater government accountability, and meaningful action against corruption.
The upcoming election will test the political strength of a movement that began on university campuses and expanded into a nationwide campaign.
Wednesday evening’s welcome in Belgrade demonstrated the continued mobilization of students and citizens as Serbia approaches an important political decision.
Sources: Associated Press | Reuters | N1 Serbia | Vreme | Beta News Agency
By NJ RADAR Team