Story perspectives

Serbia protests roof collapse deaths, police crackdown, elections looming

5/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The protest stemmed from a 2024 railway station roof collapse that killed 16 people and sparked accusations.
Police used gas and stun grenades in Belgrade’s Slavija Square, detaining 23 protesters.
Council of Europe human rights commissioner Michael O'Flaherty said Serbia’s rights situation has deteriorated and he will monitor the protests.
President Aleksandar Vucic announced that elections could be held between September and November, while his supporters camped outside the presidency.

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Story summary

The protest stemmed from a 2024 railway station roof collapse that killed 16 people and sparked accusations.
Police used gas and stun grenades in Belgrade’s Slavija Square, detaining 23 protesters.
Council of Europe human rights commissioner Michael O'Flaherty said Serbia’s rights situation has deteriorated and he will monitor the protests.
President Aleksandar Vucic announced that elections could be held between September and November, while his supporters camped outside the presidency.