Decay, Renovation, and Controversy Surrounding Novi Sad Train Station
Following the collapse of communism, many buildings were either neglected or fell into severe disrepair. The Novi Sad train station, originally constructed in 1964, was one such structure that had long been in need of renovation. In 2021, it underwent upgrades as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aimed to modernize the Belgrade-Novi Sad-Budapest railway and integrate it into a larger transportation corridor extending from Budapest to Athens, ultimately connecting to the Chinese-managed port of Piraeus in Greece.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has been vocal about how investments under the Belt and Road Initiative have significantly improved transportation infrastructure, cutting down travel times on both railways and major highways like the A1, which links northern and southern Serbia. He has portrayed these infrastructure developments as personal achievements. However, given the widespread public distrust toward government institutions in the Balkans, many skeptics suspect that corruption, flawed contracts, and inadequate oversight played a role in the structural collapse during the station’s modernization.
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Why Are University Students Boycotting Classes?
The first wave of protests was led by residents of Novi Sad of all age groups, who gathered in the city center to mourn the victims of the station collapse tragedy. However, as pro-government media outlets and commentators began condemning the demonstrations, public anger escalated, prompting more people to take to the streets.
On November 22, students and professors from Belgrade’s Faculty of Dramatic Arts joined the movement, staging protests near their university building.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has vowed not to allow a “Maidan-style uprising” to take place in Serbia. | Stringer/Getty Images
During one demonstration, professors and students were allegedly attacked by what they claim was an organized group unaffiliated with their movement. This violent incident triggered widespread outrage and led students to occupy their universities in protest. As the movement gained momentum, additional universities and faculties across Serbia joined in, canceling classes and strengthening their commitment to the cause.
Unlike other citizens who may also feel frustrated but cannot afford to take time off work or family duties, students have been able to sustain the protests almost daily. Those unable to be physically present contribute by preparing meals, purchasing blankets, and delivering supplies to the occupied universities—ensuring the movement continues to grow.
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