On March 4, 2025, chaos erupted in the Serbian Parliament as opposition lawmakers clashed with security forces during a session intended to confirm the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević. The session, which was supposed to address funding for university education, quickly devolved into violence, with smoke bombs and flares being thrown, resulting in injuries to several lawmakers.
Key Takeaways
- Opposition deputies protested against the legitimacy of the parliamentary session.
- At least three lawmakers were injured, with one in serious condition.
- The incident reflects ongoing political turmoil and anti-corruption protests in Serbia.
Background of the Protests
The unrest in Serbia has been fueled by months of anti-corruption protests, particularly following a tragic incident in November 2024, when a railway station roof collapse killed 15 people. Critics have blamed the government for negligence and corruption, leading to widespread public outcry.
The Chaotic Scene in Parliament
During the parliamentary session, opposition members displayed banners reading "Serbia is Rising to Bring Down the Regime!" and blew whistles to disrupt proceedings. As tensions escalated, they threw smoke bombs, flares, and even eggs and water bottles, leading to physical confrontations among lawmakers.
Footage from the session showed a chaotic scene, with colorful flares illuminating the chamber and lawmakers engaging in scuffles. The Speaker of Parliament, Ana Brnabic, condemned the actions of the opposition, labeling them a "terrorist gang" and asserting that their protests were an attempt to undermine the government.
Injuries and Aftermath
At least three lawmakers were reported injured during the melee, with one sustaining serious injuries. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and stability of the parliamentary process in Serbia, as the government struggles to maintain order amid rising public dissent.
Political Implications
The violent disruption in Parliament highlights the deepening political crisis in Serbia. The opposition’s insistence that the session was illegal stems from their demand for the formal acknowledgment of Vučević’s resignation before any new laws could be passed. This situation underscores the growing divide between the ruling party and opposition factions, as well as the increasing volatility of Serbian politics.
As the country grapples with these challenges, the future of governance in Serbia remains uncertain, with ongoing protests likely to continue as citizens demand accountability and reform from their leaders.
Sources
- Parliament Fight Roils Serbia’s Vucic as Protests Continue, Bloomberg.
- Video. Three MPs injured as parliamentary session turns violent in Serbia, Euronews.com.
- Chaotic scenes in Serbia’s parliament as smoke bombs and flares thrown, lawmakers injured, South China Morning Post.
- Serbian parliament erupts into chaos as smoke grenades, tear gas clash ensues, CBS News.
- Serbia’s Parliament descends into chaos, at least three lawmakers injured as smoke bombs and flares thrown, The Hindu.
