Serbia's PM Resigns Following Deadly Canopy Collapse Protests

Serbia's Prime Minister Miloš Vučević announced on Tuesday that he is stepping down in the wake of weeks of massive anti-corruption protests triggered by the deadly collapse of a concrete canopy in the northern city Novi Sad last November.

Why It Matters

The accident, which killed 15 people, has become a symbol of the broader discontent with the increasingly autocratic leadership of Serbia's President, Aleksandar Vučić.

Many locals believe poor reconstruction work, driven by government corruption, was to blame.

Serbian prosecutors have filed charges against 13 individuals, including a government minister and several other state officials.

What To Know

But the release of former construction minister Goran Vesić from detention has raised concerns about the independence of the investigation.

Despite formally seeking European Union membership, Vučić has faced mounting criticism for undermining democratic freedoms within Serbia.

Newsweek contacted the Serbian government by email on Tuesday requesting a comment.

Why Are Serbians Protesting?

The collapsed canopy at the Novi Sad train station was part of a broader renovation effort linked to Chinese state-backed infrastructure projects.

On Monday, university students launched a 24-hour blockade of a major traffic intersection in the capital, Belgrade.

It marked a significant escalation in their demands for accountability.

The protest, which has attracted thousands of students, farmers on tractors, and concerned citizens, is the latest chapter in a wave of demonstrations against the government's handling of the disaster.

Did the Protests Turn Violent?

They have become one of the most significant challenges to the government of Vučić in years.

In response, Vučić called for dialogue, urging a de-escalation of tensions.

However, students have consistently rejected direct talks with Vučić, asserting that he is not constitutionally authorized to engage with them.

The president has accused student leaders of working at the behest of foreign powers to destabilize the government, though no evidence has been provided to support this claim.

The protests have been marked by occasional violence. In recent weeks, drivers have driven through protest crowds on at least two occasions, injuring two young women.

What People Are Saying

Serbian President, Aleksandar Vučić called for dialogue during a news conference. He said: "We need to lower the tensions and start talking to each other." He also warned that the protests could harm Serbia's already fragile economy: "Any kind of crisis poses a serious problem for our economy. Such a situation in society is not good for anyone."

Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic said during a news conference: "It is my unconditional decision to resign."

What Happens Now

Vučević's resignation is expected to pave the way for early parliamentary elections. Under Serbian law, the resignation must be ratified by the Parliament, which now has 30 days to either select a new government or call for a snap election.

This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press