Belgrade Rises in Solidarity: Ten Months On, Justice Demanded for Novi Sad Collapse Victims

Belgrade, Serbia – The heart of Belgrade pulsed with a profound mix of grief and defiance on September 2nd, 2025, as hundreds gathered to mark ten agonizing months since the catastrophic structural collapse in Novi Sad. The demonstration served as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the unfulfilled promises of justice, with citizens and victims' families renewing their impassioned calls for accountability.

The tragedy, which occurred in November 2024, saw a vital piece of infrastructure in Novi Sad buckle under unexplained circumstances, claiming numerous lives and leaving many more injured.

The exact nature of the collapse remains a source of public contention, with initial investigations pointing towards a combination of design flaws and alleged negligence in construction and oversight. For the families of the victims, however, the official explanations have fallen short, fueling a persistent demand for a thorough, independent inquiry.

Braving the late summer heat, protesters marched through the capital, carrying banners adorned with the faces of the deceased and slogans demanding "Justice for Novi Sad" and "No More Silence." Emotional speeches from family members painted a harrowing picture of their loss and the frustration with what they perceive as a sluggish and opaque investigative process.

"Ten months is too long to wait for answers," cried one tearful mother, whose child was among the victims. "We deserve to know what happened, and those responsible must be held accountable."

Organizers of the demonstration, a coalition of civil society groups and victim support networks, emphasized that the protest was not merely a memorial but a stark warning.

They highlighted broader concerns about infrastructure safety standards across the country and the need for stricter regulatory oversight to prevent future calamities. Demands included the immediate release of all investigative reports, public disclosure of all parties involved in the construction and inspection of the collapsed structure, and concrete steps towards legislative reform that prioritizes public safety over profit.

The atmosphere was charged with collective sorrow but also a fierce determination.

Participants lit candles, laid flowers, and observed moments of silence, creating a poignant tableau against the backdrop of the city's bustling streets. The solidarity displayed by the diverse crowd – from students and pensioners to professionals and activists – underscored the widespread impact of the Novi Sad tragedy and the collective will for change.

As the demonstration concluded, organizers vowed to continue their advocacy, promising further protests and legal actions until justice is served.

The message from Belgrade was unequivocal: the victims of the Novi Sad collapse will not be forgotten, and the quest for truth and accountability will not cease until every question is answered and every responsible party is held to account, ensuring that lessons are learned from this tragic event to safeguard future generations.