Key Takeaways:

• Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic has resigned following escalating anti-corruption protests triggered by a November accident that killed 15.
• The protests have drawn widespread public support, particularly from students, demanding accountability and transparency in government operations.
• Vucevic’s resignation could lead to early parliamentary elections, with the parliament required to decide within 30 days.
• The protests have evolved into broader dissatisfaction with President Alexandar Vucic's rule, marking a significant challenge to his accountability.
• Despite resigning, Vucevic cited ongoing tensions and recent attacks on student protesters as catalysts for his decision.

Serbia’s populist Prime Minister Milos Vucevic announced his resignation on January 28, 2025, as a direct response to weeks of immense public pressure and mass anti-corruption demonstrations ignited by the tragic collapse of a concrete canopy at Novi Sad’s railway station in November, which claimed 15 lives. The canopy collapse has become emblematic of widespread public discontent toward the authoritarian governance of President Alexandar Vucic, who stands accused of curtailing democratic freedoms while pursuing European Union membership for Serbia.

In a news conference detailing his decision, Vucevic appealed for calm among protesters, stating, “It is my appeal for everyone to calm down the passions and return to dialogue,” highlighting his desire to lower societal tensions. He also announced the resignation of Novi Sad's Mayor Milan Djuric during the announcement. Following the confirmation by parliament—required within 30 days—this resignation might lead to early elections, further complicating the political landscape in Serbia.

The protests, which began as vigilant memorials for the victims of the canopy collapse, have morphed into a broad movement advocating against rampant corruption and demanding accountability from government officials. Tens of thousands have turned out to voice their frustration, participating in frequent blockades and traffic disruptions across the nation, focused prominently in the capital, Belgrade.

Recent student-led demonstrations have significantly amplified the call for political change, where calls for transparency in governmental actions and evaluations on infrastructure projects have become central themes. Protesters have not only demanded justice for the Nov Sad incident but have expanded the narrative to include calls for the resignation of both Vucevic and Vucic, pointing to a systematic failure within the governing structure.

Despite Vucevic's resignation, political tensions are rising as large crowds continued to gather, manifesting their grievances, especially after violent incidents involving arrests and attacks on demonstrators. Activists, alongside student organizations, emphasize that corruption must be addressed to avoid further tragedies, spotlighting the investigation's progress into the deaths and the builders behind the construction.

In light of these events, President Vucic faces increasing pressure to initiate reforms and engage in a genuine dialogue with the protests’ leaders, particularly as calls for governmental accountability persist. As Vucic moves forward, the focus remains on how his government will respond to the ongoing demands for integrity and transparency within its ranks.

For more details, refer to the full articles from BBC, AP News, and Time.