‘Students are Serbia’: Novi Sad marks anniversary of attack on protesters

Novi Sad, Serbia – A year after supporters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) attacked students and citizens, a protest convened in the city to mark the anniversary and show continued defiance. The demonstration, led by a banner proclaiming “Students are Serbia,” saw participants march through the city, their phone lights illuminating the path.

Protesters stopped at the SNS offices on Strazilovska Street, which have remained closed for a year since the original incident. They chanted slogans and covered the building’s windows with stickers, including one designating the area “Corruption Victims Square.” Speakers declared, “Students have awakened Serbia,” emphasizing their ongoing commitment to activism.

The anniversary event occurred amidst a notable police presence, including plainclothes officers, traffic police, and riot units. Mihailo Krstic of the Novi Sad citizens’ assembly stated that the gathering aimed to demonstrate that the city remembers the events and is dedicated to combating violence with peaceful means and dignity.

The original attack on August 13, 2025, began as a march toward the SNS offices. Flares, firecrackers, and stones were reportedly launched from the party’s building toward the demonstrators, who retaliated. The ensuing melee involved police and the Gendarmerie, with high-ranking SNS officials reportedly present. Eyewitnesses claimed that members of the elite “Cobras” unit fired warning shots. The aftermath saw criminal proceedings initiated against several individuals.

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the group gathered to show that Novi Sad remembers and that they are committed to fighting violence with peace and dignity.