Tens of thousands of Serbians gathered to honor the victims of a railway station collapse that occurred a year ago, a tragedy that fueled anti-government feelings which continue to challenge President Aleksandar Vučić.
A student-led movement coordinated the rallies in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, where on November 1, 2024, the canopy of the recently renovated station gave way. The memorial event began at 11:52 a.m., the precise moment the roof fell, with 16 minutes of silence observed for the 16 lives lost. Attendees laid flowers and candles along temporary barriers near the damaged entrance, while thousands filled the square.
This incident sparked Serbia’s biggest youth-led movement since the fall of Slobodan Milošević, the hardline leader who died in 2006 during his trial for 66 counts of crimes against humanity, including genocide.
Initially, protesters called for a transparent investigation into the disaster, but their demands soon broadened to include criticism of corruption and nepotism, as well as calls for early parliamentary elections, currently scheduled for 2027.
Many traveled to Novi Sad by bus or car, but in a show of ongoing protest, some marched from Novi Pazar, about 340 km (211 miles) south of the capital. Their journey took a symbolic 16 days to complete.
Residents of Novi Sad welcomed the marchers with whistles and flags. “I came to pay respect to the strongest force in the world right now—our students, our youth,” said local Ratko Popovic.
The protests have achieved some outcomes, such as the resignation of former Prime Minister Miloš Vučević in January.
Vučić has remained defiant, labeling protesters as Western-backed “terrorists.” However, Saturday’s gathering may have affected him. In a televised address on Friday, he issued a rare apology for his harsh words.
“I have said some things that I now regret,” Vučić stated in his call for dialogue. “All the hatred simmering in our society can only lead to more destruction.”
After a year of street protests, Serbia’s students are divided on the next steps.
The government has declared Saturday a day of national mourning.
Serbia is pursuing EU membership, but Vučić’s crackdowns and his close ties with Russia and China have raised concerns in Brussels.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos noted on X that the canopy tragedy “is changing Serbia.”
“It mobilized people to demand accountability, free expression, and inclusive democracy—the same values that will guide Serbia into the EU,” Kos said.
The anti-government protests have mostly been peaceful, though they turned violent in August amid claims of police brutality and excessive force.
In September, 13 individuals, including former construction minister Goran Vesić, were charged in a criminal case related to the disaster. A separate anti-corruption inquiry and an EU-backed investigation into potential misuse of EU funds for the project are ongoing.
Agence France-Presse contributed to this report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about large crowds assembling to mark the first anniversary of a Serbian train station tragedy written in a natural conversational tone with clear direct answers
General Beginner Questions
1 What is this event about
This is a memorial gathering to mark one year since a tragic event occurred at a Serbian train station where many people lost their lives or were injured
2 Why are people gathering in a large crowd
People are gathering to remember the victims show support for the families affected and stand in solidarity with their community A large crowd shows the collective impact of the tragedy and the shared need to heal
3 Where and when is this memorial taking place
The main gathering is typically held at the train station where the tragedy occurred on the exact date of the anniversary Local news and community groups will announce the specific time and location
4 Who is organizing this event
It is often organized by a combination of victim support groups local community leaders and sometimes national organizations dedicated to public safety or remembrance
5 Can anyone attend or is it only for those directly affected
These events are usually open to the public Anyone who wishes to pay their respects and show support for the community is welcome to attend
Deeper Advanced Questions
6 What is the significance of marking a oneyear anniversary
The first anniversary is a major milestone in the grieving process Its a time for the community to come together publicly assess the progress of healing and ensure the victims are not forgotten
7 Have there been any safety changes at the station since the tragedy
This is a common question The answer depends on the specific circumstances of the tragedy There may have been new safety protocols physical improvements to the station or new regulations implemented to prevent a similar event
8 What are the common challenges with such a large emotional gathering
Challenges can include managing crowd safety providing emotional support for people who may become overwhelmed and ensuring the event remains a peaceful and respectful tribute
9 How do organizers ensure the crowd remains safe and orderly
Organizers typically work with local authorities and security personnel to manage the crowd set up barriers or designated areas and have medical and psychological firstaid services on standby
10 What was the official response or investigation conclusion after the tragedy
This refers to
