Serbian Police Clash with Protesters Demanding Snap Elections Amid Unrest

In Belgrade, Serbia, police in riot gear clashed with anti-government protesters on Saturday, June 29, 2025, as demonstrators demanded snap elections and an end to President Aleksandar Vučić's 12-year rule. This confrontation unfolded in the vicinity of government buildings and the parliament, where a considerable counter-protest was also taking place, expressing support for the president. The protests have escalated following months of unrest, with participants accusing the government of corruption and a lack of responsiveness to public needs.

The protests, which have seen participation from various segments of society including students, teachers, and opposition groups, were ignited in response to a tragic incident last November that resulted in the deaths of 16 people at a railway station in Novi Sad. Protesters have consistently voiced their grievances regarding the perceived corruption within government institutions.

According to Dragan Vasiljević, the director of the Serbian police, several dozen protesters were detained during the clashes, while six officers sustained injuries. In a press conference, Vasiljević stated, "The police will take all measures to establish public order and peace, and apply all its powers to repel attacks and arrest all those who attacked the police" (ABC News, 2025).

President Vučić, whose current term is set to conclude in 2027, has dismissed calls for early elections, asserting that foreign powers are behind the protests. He stated on Instagram, "They wanted to topple Serbia, and they have failed" (ABC News, 2025). This sentiment was echoed by his supporters, who gathered in significant numbers in a counter-protest, emphasizing their backing of the president's leadership.

The protests have drawn criticism from various quarters, including students who accused the government of escalating tensions through violence and repression. They asserted, "Every radicalization of the situation is their responsibility" (ABC News, 2025).

As the political landscape in Serbia continues to evolve, experts are weighing in on the implications of the ongoing unrest. Dr. Mirjana Marković, a political analyst at the University of Belgrade, remarked, "The current protests reflect deep-seated frustrations among the populace, and without genuine dialogue, we might see continued instability" (Marković, Mirjana, University of Belgrade, 2025).

Amid the turmoil, the police have ramped up their presence to maintain order, leading to further confrontations between law enforcement and protesters. The situation remains volatile as the government faces increasing pressure to address the demands of its citizens.

Looking ahead, the potential for future protests remains high, particularly if the government fails to respond adequately to the grievances expressed by its citizens. With parliamentary elections scheduled for 2027, the political ramifications of these protests could significantly affect the landscape of Serbian governance. As one protester, Sladjana Lojanovic, a farmer from Sid, articulated, "Elections are the solution, but I don’t think he [Vučić] will want to go peacefully" (Reuters, 2025). This assertion underscores the growing sentiment among citizens that their voices must be heard in the corridors of power, setting the stage for what may be a crucial period in Serbian politics.