On April 13, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., Place du Luxembourg in Brussels will host a significant demonstration supporting Serbian students cycling from Novi Sad to Strasbourg. This event, part of the “Tura do Strazbura” (Tour to Strasbourg), aims to draw public attention to demands for accountability, transparency, and democratic principles in Serbia, urging European institutions to support these causes.
The Catalyst: Novi Sad Tragedy Unveils Systemic Issues
The current movement began on November 1, 2024, when a canopy collapse at Novi Sad railway station resulted in 16 deaths. While officially classified as an accident, the protests highlighted its significance as a consequence of systemic corruption and negligence in Serbian infrastructure planning and public authorities’ responsibilities. The university students across Serbia initiated protests demanding justice and systemic reform, which have since spread globally, especially among the Serbian diaspora, and dozens of faculties in the Universities of Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac occupied 7/7 days. Their rallying cries, such as “Zločin, a ne tragedija” (A crime, not a tragedy) and “Korupcija ubija” (Corruption kills), have echoed in hundreds of cities worldwide.
A Journey of Resistance and Collective Gathering: The Tour de Strasbourg
On April 3, 2025, 80 Serbian students embarked on their cycling journey traversing Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany, with the goal of reaching Strasbourg by April 15. Their journey symbolises a passage through European countries, seeking solidarity and support for their cause. Along the way, local communities warmly welcomed them, including notable receptions in Budapest and Vienna and the warm encouraging speech delivered by the deputy mayor of Salzburg upon their arrival there on April 10.
Diaspora Solidarity in Northern Europe: The Benelux Ride
Parallel to the main tour, many members of the Serbian diaspora in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg organised a 626-kilometre solidarity ride from Amsterdam to Strasbourg, departing on April 11 and planning to stop in key cities, including The Hague, Antwerp, and Brussels, before joining the main group in Strasbourg. Their ride underscores the transnational nature of the protest and widespread support among Serbians abroad who have been also demonstrating for months.
Brussels Demonstration: A Call to European Institutions
The Brussels protest on April 13 serves as a pivotal moment in the movement. By demonstrating in front of the European Parliament, students and various supporters aim to highlight the erosion of democratic values in Serbia and urge the EU to take a firmer stance against corruption and repression. They call for justice for the Novi Sad tragedy victims, accountability for systemic corruption, protection of democratic and press freedoms, and support from European institutions in upholding the rule of law in Serbia.
A Movement Beyond Borders
The Serbian students’ protest has resonated across Europe, inspiring similar demonstrations and solidarity actions in several neighbouring countries and much beyond. From silent vigils in Serbian towns to rallies in major European cities, citizens unite in a shared demand for justice and democratic integrity, exemplifying the power of youth-led activism and transnational solidarity, and protesting to the cry of “Pumpaj!” (“Pump it!”), which has become a true rallying call for action across the globe
Pedalling Towards Change
As the Serbian students approach Strasbourg, their journey stands as a firm stance to resilience and the enduring fight for democratic values. Their protest transcends national boundaries, reminding European institutions of their responsibility to support those striving for justice and transparency. The upcoming demonstration in Brussels is not just a plea for Serbia but a call to uphold the principles that define the European Union beyond rhetoric and the status quo.
Join the Demonstration
April 13, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
Place du Luxembourg, Brussels
For more information, visit: www.tourdestrasbourg.com
Follow the live tracking of the group’s route here: https://www.strava.com/beacon/704KoiL9tOy
