MEPs express support for Serbian students: We admire their persistence, strength, unity

Before entering the Parliament building, the students staged a small but touching performance.

They lined up in front of the European Parliament, took off the sneakers they had worn to run 2,000 kilometers to Brussels. Next to each pair, they laid a white rose and a black placard bearing the name and birth and death year of a Novi Sad tragedy victim.

On November 1, 2024 a concrete canopy collapsed at the recently renovated Novi Sad main train station, claiming 16 lives.

N1’s European correspondent, Nikola Radisic, described the silent performance as a deeply emotional moment.

“Passersby were visibly surprised, and it seems the action really struck a chord. There were MEPs, staff working here, and ordinary people walking by,” he said.

The student runners then entered the Parliament building to begin their meetings.

Around a dozen MEPs from five political groups attended, though only one was from the European People’s Party, the leading party in the ruling coalition. The Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) is an associated member party of the EPP.

Although many MEPs were already aware of the students’ mission and the events in Serbia since November 1, the meetings gave them a chance to hear directly from the students, rather than through media reports, about how they feel, what their demands are, why they are making those demands, and their ultimate goal of holding elections.

N1’s reporter said MEPs asked detailed questions, including how the students view the EU, given the controversial messages coming from Serbia on that topic.

“The students received support from all political groups. We have our differences here, however, when it comes to core values like fighting corruption or upholding the rule of law, we are largely united. In that sense, the students got our backing,” said Biljana Borzan, an MEP from the Socialist and Democrats.

She added that the MEPs did not comment on political positions or offer advice on Serbia’s internal affairs.

“But they gave their support, truly admiring the students’ persistence, strength, and unity. It is one thing to organize something in the short term, but keeping that resolve and drive for a better Serbia over the long haul is tough.”

Gordan Bosanac, representing the Greens, noted it was encouraging that all pro-European MEPs attended.

“I’d say five groups were represented, which is a strong signal. Even working in the Parliament, I know it is not always easy to get everyone together. But it shows there is real interest here. The questions were direct, and the students’ answers were honest. I think a sense of trust was built. As I said, we are here to listen to what they expect and how we can help Serbia become more democratic and tackle corruption,” he said.

He highlighted one student’s remark that stood out to him:

“When asked how they managed to rise up against a regime that has captured institutions…he said that actually their parents had passed down those values. This means that there has always been a parallel system in Serbia preserving the values of democracy and human rights.”

Bosanac said he was one of the first to speak openly about the mistakes the EU has made toward Serbia which is why he said he understands the students’ cautious stance toward the Union.

“Right now, I think they have other priorities. Debating EU membership isn’t at the top of their list.”

Lukas Furlas, from the Stabilization and Association Committee, said he attended the meeting to better understand the students’ mission and goals.

“As head of the European Parliament’s delegation for relations with Serbia, I need to stay informed about the situation there. It is important to hear from them directly about what’s going on,” said Furlas.

The students said they delivered their message, and that the MEPs heard it loud and clear.

“We made it crystal clear what’s happening in Serbia. We will see how things unfold from here… They absolutely understand the message we are sending, and in their view, the things we are demanding are the same things they stand for as an institution. They are supporting us to keep pushing forward in our struggle.”