### Mass Protests Erupt in Serbia Against President Vucic's Rule - On June 28-29, 2025, Belgrade witnessed a significant anti-government rally, with approximately **100,000 participants** demanding early elections and an end to the 12-year presidency of **Aleksandar Vucic**. This protest is part of a broader movement that has been gaining momentum since the previous fall, primarily driven by concerns over corruption and authoritarian governance [https://kyivindependent.com/serbian-police-crack-down-on-protestors-at-mass-anti-government-rally-in-belgrade]. - The protests have been notably led by university students, marking a shift in the demographic of dissent against Vucic's administration, which has faced increasing scrutiny and opposition [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/3486084-serbian-protest-erupts-tear-gas-and-arrests-in-belgrade]. ### Structure of the Protest Movement and Government Response 1. **Background of Protests**: - The protests began in the fall of 2024, fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with Vucic's government, particularly regarding allegations of corruption and the lack of democratic processes [https://www.reuters.com/world/serbias-students-opposition-rally-demand-snap-elections-2025-06-28]. 2. **Recent Developments**: - On June 28, 2025, tens of thousands rallied in Belgrade, marking a culmination of nearly eight months of protests. The demonstrators called for snap elections, reflecting a significant challenge to Vucic's authority [https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-06-28/tens-of-thousands-rally-in-serbias-capital-to-back-up-their-demand-for-an-early-vote]. - The protests escalated when riot police used tear gas to disperse crowds, leading to clashes between law enforcement and protesters [https://www.sootoday.com/world-news/serbian-riot-police-fire-tear-gas-at-anti-government-protesters-demanding-an-early-election-10879038]. 3. **Government's Stance**: - The Serbian government has maintained a firm stance against the protests, with police actions indicating a willingness to suppress dissent. This has raised concerns about the state of democracy and civil liberties in Serbia [https://www.abc27.com/international/ap-tens-of-thousands-rally-in-serbias-capital-to-back-up-their-demand-for-an-early-vote]. ### Evidence of Public Sentiment and Government Actions - **Protest Participation**: - The June 28 rally saw **tens of thousands** of participants, indicating a strong public sentiment against the current administration [https://www.cp24.com/news/world/2025/06/28/tens-of-thousands-rally-in-serbias-capital-to-back-up-their-demand-for-an-early-vote]. - **Police Response**: - The use of tear gas and riot police to control the protests highlights the government's aggressive approach to managing dissent, which has been met with criticism from various human rights organizations [https://www.thecanadianpressnews.ca/world/photos-of-serbian-protesters-demanding-early-elections-clash-with-riot-police/article_40e54dc6-548f-52b9-ab7b-116535151b2d.html]. ### Conclusion: A Turning Point for Serbian Politics 1. **Growing Dissent**: The protests represent a significant turning point in Serbian politics, with a clear demand for democratic reforms and accountability from the government. 2. **Public Mobilization**: The involvement of university students and the sheer number of participants signal a mobilization of younger generations against perceived authoritarianism. 3. **Government's Challenge**: The Serbian government faces a critical challenge in addressing the demands of the populace while maintaining order, which could shape the future political landscape of the country. In summary, the recent protests in Serbia reflect deep-rooted frustrations with President Vucic's administration, highlighting a pivotal moment in the country's political discourse as citizens call for change and accountability [https://ekathimerini.com/politics/foreign-policy/1273812/tens-of-thousands-rally-in-belgrade-to-back-up-their-demand-for-early-vote].