Serbia Protests: Police Clash with Students Over Election Demands

Protests Continue in Serbia, Escalating into Clashes with Police

Demonstrations against the management of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić have continued, recently ⁣escalating into violent confrontations⁣ with police in Belgrade. The protests, initially sparked by‍ the November ​1st train accident in Novi Sad that claimed 16 lives – an ⁣event demonstrators ⁤attribute to government incompetence and corruption – have grown​ to encompass broader discontent with the current leadership.

Over the past week and‍ a half, the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Novas has become a focal point for the protests, after students occupied the building for several months and were later removed ⁣by​ police at the Dean’s request. On Saturday, police forcibly⁤ dispersed several thousand protesters gathered near the​ university, employing tear gas, stun grenades, and noise grenades, according to independent broadcaster N1.

Interior Minister Ivica Dačić reported 42 arrests ⁤following⁣ the clashes, and stated that 13 police officers were injured. He alleges the⁤ violence was pre-planned to “fuel tension” ⁣and serve⁢ as “political fuel.” Reports⁢ indicate⁢ the police action followed protesters throwing⁢ bottles and firecrackers.

These protests represent the largest and‌ most sustained demonstrations in‍ Serbia since the breakup of Yugoslavia. While diverse segments of society are involved, students are a driving force​ behind the movement.

Protesters⁢ are demanding ⁢early elections, a request that has been ⁢firmly rejected by the government. While demonstrations were initially peaceful, recent events have seen a rise in violence, with ‍both protesters and​ authorities blaming each other for escalating tensions. Protesters allege aggressive​ tactics by police and government supporters are responsible for ⁢the clashes.

President Vučić has accused protesters of attempting to destabilize Serbia,asserting on Friday night that the country is “stronger than everyone” and⁤ will remain so. A rally in‍ support of the government is scheduled to take place across Serbia on⁣ Sunday.

Vučić has previously characterized the protests as a foreign conspiracy.