Large demonstrations for May Day in Serbia – 16 minutes silence for the victims of Novi Sad

Large demonstrations throughout Serbia have occurred today on the occasion of the celebration of Labor Day and the completion of the six months of the tragedy in Novi Sad.

The rallies were organized jointly by student and trade unions. Thousands of citizens gathered at noon outside Novi Sad Railway Station to honor the 16 victims from the collapse of the concrete cornice on November 1, 2024, according to RES – EIA.

16 minutes Slow for the victims of Novi Sant

A 16 -minute silence was observed and then representatives of workers’ unions and student organizations laid wreaths at the scene of the tragedy. A march followed on main streets of the city, and protest events will continue until late in the afternoon.

In Belgrade, the demonstrations began in the morning with rallies of students and citizens in various parts of the capital. There were marches that will end up in front of the government building.

Zborovi Voždovac Hitaju ka vladi srbije na veliki protest pic.twitter.com/ruowltnrbs

– IGOR MITROVIC (@igormitrovic100) May 1, 2025

First demonstration on May Day since 2004

It is noted that it is the first time since 2004 to organize demonstrations in Serbia during Labor May. This happened thanks to the intervention of student organizations that called on representatives of the five largest trade unions to put aside the differences between them and take joint action.

« The students managed to unite us, » said Sloga (section) leader Zelco Veselinovic. Today’s protest rally in front of the government building in Belgrade was under the slogan « Solidarity in the Common Struggle ».

The official website of the students states that today’s demonstrations are « a step towards radicalization that will allow new forms of pressure », but no further clarifications are provided.

Student mobilizations against corruption, opacity and disadvantage last six months. Students call for responsibility for the tragedy in Novi Sad.

Central Photo Source: Sanja Bogićević/Danas.rs