Student demonstrations in Novi Sad, Serbia demand institutional reform and press freedom

On June 20, university students gathered at the turbo roundabout in the Liman II district of Novi Sad to protest what they described as a deepening distrust of Serbian state institutions. The demonstration, organized by the University of Novi Sad, began at 14:30 with speeches scheduled for the evening. Speakers highlighted concerns about police conduct, limitations on press freedom, and the need for fair electoral conditions, calling for independent institutions and equal application of the law. Police directed traffic and imposed temporary road closures around the Fruška Gora and Lázár Cár streets intersection. Organisers emphasized the protest was peaceful and intended to raise awareness of recent societal issues, including a train‑station tragedy that claimed 16 lives. They reiterated that "free media is essential for a democratic society" and urged citizens to participate more actively in political processes.