Belgrade, Serbia – The first spring session of Serbia’s parliament turned into a scene of chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers set off flares and smoke grenades, halting proceedings and escalating tensions in the already heated political environment. The disruption led to physical altercations among MPs, forcing security personnel to intervene and temporarily suspend the session.
The incident unfolded during a debate over proposed legislation aimed at providing concessions to students and youth. The ruling coalition had pushed for the adoption of these laws before formally accepting the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević, whose departure would effectively dissolve his cabinet. Opposition MPs vehemently opposed the move, arguing that it was illogical to pass laws proposed by a government whose leader had already stepped down.
As tensions flared, the session descended into disorder. Opposition lawmakers ignited flares and smoke grenades, filling the chamber with thick smoke and triggering a brief brawl. Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabić, who attempted to restore order, was drenched with water during the scuffle. Brnabić later revealed that one MP, Jasmina Obradović, suffered a stroke due to the chaos and was fighting for her life. Another lawmaker, who is eight months pregnant, reportedly went into shock.
In a dramatic turn, opposition MPs also used vuvuzela horns—popular among football fans—to disrupt the proceedings further. The cacophony of noise and smoke created a surreal atmosphere, highlighting the deep divisions within Serbia’s political landscape.
Background of the Crisis
The political turmoil comes amid months of unrest sparked by a tragic incident in November 2023, when a train station awning collapsed in the northern city of Novi Sad, killing 15 people. The disaster ignited widespread student-led protests, demanding accountability and government reforms. In response, Prime Minister Vučević resigned in late January, stating that his decision aimed to prevent further societal tensions.
Both Vučević and Brnabić belong to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), led by President Aleksandar Vučić. The president has promised an “urgent and extensive reconstruction of the government” to address the protesters’ demands. However, the opposition remains skeptical, accusing the ruling party of failing to deliver meaningful change.
Public Reaction and Protests
Following the chaotic parliamentary session, protesters gathered outside the parliament building in Belgrade, blocking one of the city’s main avenues. The demonstration underscored the growing public frustration with the government’s handling of the crisis and its perceived lack of transparency.
Analysis and Recommendations
The events in Serbia’s parliament reflect a deepening political crisis, with the ruling coalition and opposition locked in a bitter struggle for legitimacy. The use of disruptive tactics, such as flares and smoke grenades, highlights the opposition’s desperation to draw attention to their grievances. However, such actions risk further polarizing the political climate and alienating the public.
For Serbia to move forward, there must be a renewed focus on dialogue and compromise. The government should prioritize addressing the concerns of students and youth, who have been at the forefront of the protests. Transparency and accountability in the investigation of the Novi Sad tragedy are also crucial to restoring public trust.