Introduction to the Crisis

On March 4, 2025, Serbia's parliament witnessed unprecedented chaos when opposition lawmakers set off flares and smoke bombs during a session, leaving at least three lawmakers injured. This incident is the latest escalation in a deepening political crisis that has gripped the Balkan nation for months. The crisis began after a deadly train station canopy collapse in Novi Sad on November 1, 2024, which killed 15 people and sparked widespread protests over government corruption.

Background of the Protests

The protests, largely driven by students, have been calling for increased funding for education and an end to corruption. However, the situation took a turn for the worse when Prime Minister Miloš Vučević resigned in late January, following intense public pressure. Despite his resignation, the parliament has yet to confirm it, leading to a stalemate in governance.

The Parliamentary Incident

During the chaotic parliamentary session, opposition lawmakers disrupted proceedings by blowing whistles and displaying banners with slogans like "Serbia has risen so the regime would fall!" The situation quickly escalated as flares and smoke bombs were thrown, causing injuries among lawmakers. Jasmina Obradović, a member of parliament, was seriously injured and hospitalized. The Speaker of Parliament, Ana Brnabić, accused the opposition of acting like a "terrorist gang," while Defense Minister Bratislav Gasic condemned their actions as "a disgrace to Serbia."

Political Tensions and Demands

The opposition has insisted that the government lacks authority to pass new laws while the prime minister's resignation remains unconfirmed. They are pushing for a transitional government to oversee new elections, a proposal rejected by the ruling party. This standoff reflects the broader political divisions in Serbia, where President Aleksandar Vučić's populist government faces mounting criticism over corruption and governance.

Public Reaction and Protests

Outside the parliament, hundreds of opposition supporters gathered, echoing the sentiments of those inside. The protests have been ongoing since the train station incident, with demonstrators blaming government corruption for the tragedy. The demand for a transitional government and free elections remains a central theme in these protests.

Key Points of the Crisis:

• Deadly Train Station Collapse: The crisis began with the collapse of a train station canopy in Novi Sad, killing 15 people.
• Anti-Corruption Protests: Widespread protests have been calling for an end to corruption and increased education funding.
• Prime Minister's Resignation: Miloš Vučević resigned in January, but his resignation has not been confirmed by parliament.
• Parliamentary Chaos: Opposition lawmakers used flares and smoke bombs during a session, injuring several colleagues.
• Political Stalemate: The opposition demands a transitional government, which the ruling party has refused.

Conclusion

The chaotic scenes in Serbia's parliament highlight the deep political fissures in the country. As protests continue and tensions rise, finding a path to stability and reform remains a pressing challenge for Serbia's leadership.