Thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Belgrade on March 24, 2025, to voice their outrage against a luxury real estate project led by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The protests coincided with the 26th anniversary of NATO’s bombing of Serbia, which destroyed the site now slated for redevelopment. Demonstrators demanded accountability for government corruption and the preservation of historical sites.
Key Takeaways
- Over 100,000 people participated in the protests, marking one of the largest demonstrations in Serbia’s recent history.
- The rally was sparked by a controversial real estate project involving Jared Kushner, which aims to transform a former military headquarters into a luxury complex.
- Protesters are calling for an independent investigation into allegations of police using sonic weapons against demonstrators during previous rallies.
Background of the Protests
The protests in Serbia have been fueled by widespread discontent with President Aleksandar Vucic’s administration, which has been accused of corruption and authoritarianism. The recent tragedy at a train station in Novi Sad, where a canopy collapse killed 15 people, has intensified public anger, leading to sustained demonstrations since November 2024.
The current protests are not just about the real estate project but reflect a broader anti-corruption movement. Many Serbians believe that the government prioritizes profit over public safety and historical preservation.
The Controversial Project
The site of the proposed development is a former army headquarters that was bombed during the NATO campaign in 1999. Protesters argue that this location should be preserved as a memorial rather than transformed into a commercial complex featuring luxury apartments and a Trump-branded hotel.
- Key Features of the Proposed Development:
- Luxury hotel and shopping complex
- 99-year lease on prime land in Belgrade
- Memorial for victims of the NATO bombing
Allegations of Police Violence
In addition to the protests against the development project, there are growing calls for an independent investigation into claims that police used sonic weapons to disperse crowds at previous demonstrations. Reports suggest that a loud noise caused panic among protesters, leading to injuries and chaos during a peaceful rally.
- Claims of Sonic Weapon Use:
- Allegations of a targeted sonic device causing disorientation and panic
- Government denies the use of such devices, labeling the claims as false
- Calls for international investigation into the incident
Conclusion
The protests in Serbia represent a significant moment in the country’s political landscape, as citizens demand accountability and transparency from their government. The combination of historical grievances and contemporary issues of corruption has galvanized a diverse coalition of protesters, signaling a potential shift in public sentiment against the long-standing rule of President Vucic. As the situation unfolds, the eyes of the world remain on Serbia, where the fight for democracy and justice continues to gain momentum.
Sources
- Thousands rally in Serbia against Trump son-in-law’s real estate project | Protests News, Al Jazeera.
- Over 100,000 people join protest rally in Belgrade against Serbia’s president and government, AP News.
- Protesters in Serbia rally against real estate project with Trump son-in-law Kushner, AP News.
- Calls in Serbia for independent investigation into claims of a sonic device attack at peaceful protest |
CNN, CNN. - Sonic weapons used to break up a Belgrade protest? – DW – 03/18/2025, DW.
