Context:

In Belgrade, Serbian police clashed with a vast crowd of approximately 140,000 anti-government protesters demanding an early election and an end to President Aleksandar Vucic's 12-year tenure. The demonstrations, largely student-led, have intensified due to allegations of corruption and government mismanagement, particularly following the fatal collapse of a railway station roof. President Vucic accused the protesters of being influenced by foreign plots, while his opponents cite his close ties to Russia and alleged corruption as reasons for their dissent. The protests have persisted despite Vucic's refusal to call for early elections, with his coalition holding a strong position in parliament. As the government remains firm, organizers of the protests have declared that the authorities are responsible for any escalation due to their violent response to the demonstrations.

Dive Deeper:

• In the capital city of Belgrade, Serbian police engaged in violent clashes with protesters demanding early elections and the resignation of President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been in power for 12 years. Around 140,000 people participated, marking the largest protest turnout in recent months.

• Protesters accuse the government of corruption and mishandling, with the collapse of a railway station roof that killed 16 people serving as a catalyst for the unrest. Demonstrations have included student-led movements and nationwide strikes, causing significant political pressure.

• President Vucic attributes the protests to a foreign conspiracy aimed at destabilizing Serbia, yet his critics argue that his administration is plagued by corruption, organized crime ties, and media suppression. Despite these accusations, Vucic's coalition remains dominant in parliament with 156 out of 250 seats.

• The protests have been ongoing since December, driven by various groups including students, teachers, workers, and farmers, who hold the government responsible for the Novi Sad railway station disaster. This incident led to the resignation of the former prime minister, further intensifying public dissatisfaction.

• As the protests concluded, organizers encouraged citizens to assert their freedom and criticized the government's choice of repression over dialogue, asserting that any further radicalization is the authority's responsibility. Despite the unrest, Serbian officials deny using excessive military-grade tactics against demonstrators.