A group of around 80 Serbian university students has embarked on a remarkable 1,300-kilometer bike journey from Novi Sad to Strasbourg, France. Their mission is to draw attention to ongoing protests against corruption in Serbia and to seek support from European Union institutions as they advocate for justice and democratic reforms.
Key Takeaways
- Journey Length: 1,300 kilometers (780 miles) from Novi Sad to Strasbourg.
- Duration: Expected to take approximately 12 days, cycling 100-150 kilometers daily.
- Purpose: To raise awareness of anti-corruption protests and seek EU support.
- Background: Protests were sparked by a tragic incident in November 2024, where a train station canopy collapse killed 16 people, highlighting systemic corruption.
The Journey Begins
On April 3, 2025, the students set off in light rain, receiving a warm send-off from their hometown. The group, which includes students from various academic backgrounds, aims to make their voices heard in the heart of the EU. Ivan Poturica, a mathematics student, expressed optimism about their mission, stating, "Yes, it will be tough and we will have a hard time, but I think it will be worth it. We expect someone to finally react to the situation in Serbia."
Route and Stops
The students plan to travel through several countries, including:
- Hungary
- Slovakia
- Austria
- Germany
They will cover approximately 100-150 kilometers each day, stopping to rest and gather support from the Serbian diaspora and fellow students along the way. Their route includes major cities such as Budapest, Vienna, and Munich, where they hope to raise awareness about their cause.
Background of the Protests
The protests in Serbia began in late 2024, following the tragic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station canopy, which was attributed to corruption and negligence. The students have been at the forefront of these demonstrations, demanding:
- Justice for the victims of the canopy collapse.
- Transparency regarding the reconstruction projects.
- Accountability for those responsible for violence against protesters.
- Increased funding for higher education.
These protests have garnered significant public support, becoming the largest demonstrations in Serbia since the fall of Slobodan Milošević.
Seeking EU Support
The students’ journey is not just a physical challenge but a symbolic act of resistance against what they perceive as governmental oppression. They aim to present their demands to the Council of Europe and the European Parliament, emphasizing the need for EU intervention in their fight for democracy and justice.
Despite the ongoing protests, the EU’s response has been tepid, with officials urging restraint rather than taking a firm stance against President Aleksandar Vucic’s administration. The students hope that their journey will prompt a stronger reaction from European leaders, highlighting the importance of democratic values and human rights in Serbia.
Conclusion
As the students pedal towards Strasbourg, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a generation seeking change. Their journey symbolizes not only a fight against corruption but also a quest for recognition and support from the European community. With each kilometer, they aim to amplify their message and inspire others to join their cause for a better future in Serbia.
Sources
- Serbian student protesters take anti-graft fight to EU – on bicycles, Daily Sabah.
- Biking from Novi Sad to Strasbourg: Serbian students want to draw Europe’s attention, European Western Balkans.
- Serbian Students Cross Hungarian Border on Bike Ride to Strasbourg, Balkan Insight.
- Serbian student protesters head to Strasbourg on bicycles to seek EU support, AP News.
