Belgrade University Students Block Streets, Demand Education Reform

Belgrade University Students Stage Protest, Demand Higher Education Reform Belgrade, Serbia – Students from Belgrade universities launched a protest on June 9th, 2025, blocking the intersection of Kneza Miloša and Nemanjina streets near the Serbian government building. Their demonstration, titled "Universities at a Crossroads," highlights concerns over the new Higher Education Law. The students presented three key demands to the government: the dissolution of the working group responsible for drafting the new law; the repeal of a controversial regulation deemed unconstitutional; and a swift allocation of funds for student enrollment by the end of June. Failure to meet these demands has prompted the ongoing protest. "We've been silent for too long, like boiled frogs," stated one professor interviewed at the protest, emphasizing the need for immediate action. "Now, we stand with our students for their future and the future of Serbia." The protest underscores the growing tension between the academic community and the government over higher education policies. The students' determination to be heard signals a potential for further actions if their demands are not met. The government's response to these demands will be crucial in determining the future of higher education in Serbia.