Students in Serbia have entered the fray with renewed spirit and determination ahead of the early parliamentary elections, scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026. This movement, which arose after the collapse of the canopy at the Novi Sad train station two years ago, is now ready with an electoral list to compete against the party of current President Aleksandar Vučić.
The Student Movement and Its Roots
The student movement in Serbia, as the largest rival to Aleksandar Vučić in the elections, seeks to combat corruption and government mismanagement. This movement aims to strengthen the rule of law, improve the educational system, and fight against corruption, emphasizing collective action and collaboration among university professors and researchers rather than relying on a specific leader.
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The collapse of the canopy in Novi Sad and the death of 16 people prompted students to take to the streets and protest. They believe this tragedy is the result of corruption and negligence by government officials, and it is time for fundamental changes in the governmental structure.
Election Campaign and Student Activities
As the upcoming elections rapidly approach, students have become the main driving force of the election. A group of about 120 students travels by bicycle across various regions of Serbia, engaging directly with voters. Maria, a 22-year-old medical student, is among those who travel to rural areas even in rainy weather and difficult paths to discuss changes and community needs with residents.
Meanwhile, the reception of students varies in different areas. While local officials affiliated with Vučić's party defend the government's performance, some residents express their support for the movement by welcoming and hosting the students. One resident, expressing hope in the younger generation, says that people are looking to this movement to put an end to the current situation.
However, in the lead-up to the elections, pressure on opposition figures has increased. Vladan Dukić, the president of the University of Belgrade, has come under media attacks for supporting the students. Additionally, Jana Achimović Planović, a lawyer for the victims of the protests, has faced personal attacks due to her legal activities.
Polls indicate that the electoral list of the student movement is gradually closing in on Vučić's political bloc. This election will be the first major test for the student movement at the national level after two years of protests, and its outcome could influence the political future of Serbia and the country's relations with the European Union.
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