Serbia: Under the Canopy

The collapse of a concrete canopy at the Novi Sad railway station in Serbia, which claimed 16 lives, has ignited widespread public outrage and a persistent struggle for accountability. Eighteen months after the disaster, victims' families and student activists continue to demand justice, citing a lack of official transparency and systemic government corruption. Structural engineer Zoran Djajic alleges that the tragedy resulted from substandard renovation practices and the refusal to follow technical specifications, despite his prior warnings. While mass protests have challenged the ruling party’s narrative, critics face increasing repression, including media smear campaigns and professional retaliation. The disaster remains a flashpoint for a deeply divided society, highlighting the erosion of the rule of law and the ongoing fight for democratic reform in the face of state-sponsored obstruction.