16 Deaths Drive Student List Into Serbian Power Race

Sixteen people died when a canopy collapsed at a railway station in Novi Sad, a tragedy that fueled nearly two years of anti-corruption protests in Serbia. Those demonstrations gave rise to the Student List, a movement now challenging the country's long-serving leader, Aleksandar Vučić, in Sunday's parliamentary election.

Analysts expect a tight result, though reliable polls are scarce. Vučić has held various top posts since 2012. Last month, he stepped down as president to run for prime minister in the snap election he called. He cites economic growth and infrastructure projects as his main achievements. His base views him as a strong defender of national interests.

The Student List is structured differently from traditional parties. University assemblies selected 250 candidates, including academics, engineers, athletes, and economists. None have prior political experience. Ilija Srdanović, a cardiologist and professor at Novi Sad University, tops the list. He is not the designated leader but would not necessarily be the first choice for prime minister if the group wins.

"It is absolutely normal to stand with my students to help them in their fair struggle," Srdanović told the BBC. He arrived for the interview on a motorbike wearing a fluorescent yellow jacket with pro-student slogans. A student at Novi Sad University, who asked to be identified only as Aleksandra, said the list's strength lies in its composition. "We've gathered people who are actually the best in their fields," she said.

Critics argue Vučić and his Serbian Progressive Party control state institutions and media. An International Election Observation Mission report from 2023 cited an "overwhelming ruling party advantage" driven by media bias and the misuse of public resources. A pro-government camp has occupied a small park in central Belgrade for 18 months, where residents have attacked journalists. Vučić calls this presence a "symbol of resistance."

The Novi Sad disaster complicates Vučić's position because the station renovation was part of his Belgrade to Budapest high-speed rail project. Magda Anastasijevic, an analyst at ACLED, noted that Vučić usually survives crises by finding a scapegoat. "This was not the case for the canopy," she said. Vučić has described the student movement as foreign-backed and intent on bringing down the state.

Foreign policy remains a key issue. Serbia continues fitful EU membership talks while maintaining close ties with Russia and China. Both countries refuse to recognize Kosovo's independence. Vučić warned at a rally that these links could be lost under a Student List government, asking if they would impose sanctions on Russia. In the final rallies, the ruling party filled Belgrade Arena with Vučić as the sole speaker, while a reported 150,000 people gathered in Slavija Square to hear the student candidates.