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Thousands protest in Serbian capital over fatal train station accident

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  • Thousands protest in Serbian capital over fatal train station accident
  • December 22, 2024
  • Article Body Text Belgrade — <p>Thousands protested Sunday in Serbia's capital Belgrade to demand that leaders take responsibility for the collapse of a train station roof that killed 15 people last month.</p> <p>For over seven weeks, the Serbian government has been under pressure from nation-wide demonstrations following the deaths in the northern city of Novi Sad, with many protesters accusing authorities of corruption and inadequate oversight.</p> <p>Sunday's protest organized by university students started with 15-minutes of silence as tribute to the 15 victims in the incident.</p> <p>The demonstration occupied Slavija square, a key roundabout, snarling traffic in the city center.</p> <p>&quot;The state is children's property&quot; and &quot;Protests are exams&quot; read some of the banners of the demonstrators who have demanded that the prime minister and the Novi Sad mayor resign, and that those found responsible be prosecuted.</p> <p>Farmers, actors and other citizens from across Serbia have come to support the students.</p> <p>Students have also called for legal proceedings to be dropped against demonstrators, and for the prosecution of assailants who have attacked the protesters.</p> <p>In a bid to dilute the anger and calm the protests, the authorities over the past weeks have promised various subsidies for young people.</p> <p>On Friday, the government announced plans to close schools early for winter holidays.</p> <p>Students continued to protest, saying their demands have only been partially met.</p> <p>Fourteen people, aged between six and 74, were killed on November 1 when the roof collapsed after major renovation works on the station.</p> <p>A 15th victim died in hospital weeks later. </p>
  • Content Type Text
  • Language English
  • NewsML Media Topics Arts, Culture, Entertainment and Media
  • Subtitles / Dubbing Available No
  • Network VOA
  • Embargo Date December 22, 2024 12:16 EST
  • Byline Agence France-Presse
  • Brand / Language Service Voice of America - English
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