Belgrade Protest: Students and Professors Block Crossroads, Demand Government Action

Belgrade Protest: Students and Professors Block Crossroads, Demand Government Action On June 9th, 2025, students and professors from Belgrade universities staged a significant protest near the Serbian government building. The demonstration, organized under the banner of "Universities at the Crossroads," involved a large gathering that blocked the intersection of Kneza Miloša and Nemanjina streets. A delegation delivered demands to government officials, highlighting concerns about the composition of the committee responsible for drafting a new higher education law and calling for the repeal of a controversial regulation regarding university work standards. The protest began with a 16-minute period of silence, followed by a series of workshops and discussions. Metal barriers were erected by authorities earlier in the day, indicating a heightened security presence. One participant, a student who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "We will not stop until our demands are met. This regulation is stifling academic freedom and the government is not listening." The protest underscores the ongoing tensions between the Serbian government and the academic community. The event's significance lies in the direct action taken by students and professors to voice their concerns and the apparent lack of responsiveness from government officials. The peaceful nature of the protest, despite the barriers, offers a contrast to the underlying political conflict.