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Novi Sad Protests After Deadly Canopy Collapse
Protests and violence erupt in Novi Sad after a railway station canopy collapse kills 14, sparking outrage and demands for accountability from the Serbian government.
English
United States
Human Rights ViolationsHealthEuropean UnionGovernmentCorruptionViolenceProtestAccident
Serbian Progressive PartyCity Hall Of Novi SadSerbian Police
Aleksandar VucicMilos VucevicViktor Orbán
- What were the protesters' main demands?
- The protesters, including some believed to be soccer hooligans, demanded justice for the victims and the resignation of top officials, including President Vucic and Prime Minister Vucevic. Organizers attempted to maintain calm, but some violence occurred.
- What triggered the protests in Novi Sad, Serbia?
- Protests erupted in Novi Sad, Serbia, following the collapse of a railway station canopy that killed 14 people. Demonstrators targeted City Hall, throwing flares and paint, while police responded with tear gas.
- What are the concerns about the pursuit of justice in this case?
- The canopy's collapse happened unexpectedly, killing 14 people, including a six-year-old girl. Many Serbians doubt justice will prevail due to the government's control over the judicial system.
- How did the protest evolve, and what was the government's response?
- The protest began peacefully but escalated, with some demonstrators throwing projectiles at the ruling party's headquarters and defacing president's posters. President Vucic condemned the violence and vowed to punish those involved.
- What are the main criticisms regarding the railway station canopy collapse?
- Critics blame the disaster on corruption, a lack of transparency, and shoddy workmanship during renovations. The construction minister resigned under pressure, and prosecutors have questioned over 40 people.