Serbia's Anger Boils Over a Year After Deadly Roof Collapse

A year has passed since the roof collapse at Novi Sad's railway station, but the wounds in Serbia remain fresh.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets to honor the 16 lives lost and demand justice. This was not just a memorial; it was a protest against a system many believe is rotten to the core.

A Protest of Silence and Anger

The protesters, mostly young people, filled the city's main boulevard, holding red hearts with the victims' names and white flowers. They stood in silence for 16 minutes, one for each life lost.

The scene was emotional, with families of the victims visibly distraught. One father, dressed in black, stood for hours, staring at his daughter's name on the station's fence.

Months of Protests and Unanswered Questions

This tragedy has sparked months of protests across Serbia. People are angry about the lack of accountability and the alleged corruption that led to the disaster.

President Aleksandar Vučić's government has been accused of presiding over a system plagued by corruption, poor public services, and media restrictions. The government denies these accusations.

Corruption and Cover-Ups

An independent commission reported to the European Parliament, revealing high-level corruption that led to poor construction standards and the hiring of unqualified workers.

Despite this, the government has denied these claims, even suggesting the collapse could have been an act of terrorism. Several officials have been indicted, but no trial has begun.

A Movement for Change

The protest movement, led by students, academics, and opposition leaders, is gaining momentum. They are calling for early elections and systemic change.

The government has declared a day of national mourning, but for many, this is not enough. They want justice and accountability.