'Serbia is free': Belgrade erupts in celebration after Vucic's defeat

Trams and traffic came to a standstill as throngs of people flooded the city's main avenues, their faces smothered in dense smoke. Amidst the chaos, a man perched atop a car brandished a flare, igniting the night sky. This scene mirrored protests that had gripped European cities for a month, as students demanded improved education standards and brighter prospects. However, on Sunday night in Serbia's bustling capital, Belgrade, the mood was one of jubilation, not protest, as the unexpected election victory unfolded.

The triumph was Vucic's concession of defeat to a list of candidates backed by students, marking a swift end to a two-year nonviolent protest campaign. This movement had been fueled by a desire for Vucic to relinquish power and an end to widespread corruption, allegations Vucic vehemently denied. The student-led victory signaled a significant political realignment in the Balkan nation of 6 million people, highlighting the remarkable influence young people can wield when they unite against injustice.

For Milica, a law student, the outcome was a moment of profound relief. "This is the best thing that has ever happened in my life. We will now breathe freely," she expressed. Vucic, who has held the reins of power since 2014, presided over a period of robust economic expansion. Yet, his tenure was marred by escalating dissent, notably the collapse of a railway station awning in November 2024, which claimed 16 lives. This tragedy galvanized the students to action.

Tomorrow, the newly-formed coalition of 250 student-backed candidates will confront the daunting task of governance. Yet, Sunday evening was a resounding celebration. At their headquarters, the candidates, a diverse group comprising lawyers, professors, actors, and farmers, embraced each other in disbelief at their historic achievement. "The people have won! The people defeated a dictator! The people will lead Serbia!" Nebojsa Cosic exclaimed, raising a flag high above the streets in a display of triumph and unity.