Mayor Milos Vucevic issued a firm warning regarding the ongoing student protests and blockades on campuses, stressing that the ones who suffer the most are the students themselves, risking valuable time and endangering their future opportunities.
He pointed out that the entire country feels the impact: “Serbia is the biggest loser because of these blockades. Everyone who wants to work and see progress is affected. Students have succeeded in getting attention—even contributing to the government’s fall—but now they need to think about how this will affect their own futures.”
Vucevic made clear that he does not see the students as defeated and praised their dedication: “I have never seen such commitment in a single moment in this country.” He also expressed concern about declining participation in protests following criticism from political figures like Bojan Pajtic, whom he described as an ideologue promoting Vojvodina separatism.
He urged students to return to their studies and practical work:
“They need to get back to learning and working—they can’t afford to waste this opportunity.”
Addressing the economic consequences, Vucevic warned about lasting harm: “January was the worst month economically due to the blockades. Who will transport goods when roads are blocked? People are avoiding Serbia; they are leaving.”
He highlighted internal divisions fueled by political interests, explaining:
“There are extremist factions linked to Pajtic and Dinko Gruhonjic pushing for Vojvodina’s independence—but most students in Belgrade, Nis, and other cities reject that. We must safeguard all students, including those who pay tuition and want to take exams.”
Vucevic stressed that the government met the protesters’ initial demands but noted the movement’s goals have shifted:
“Originally it was about tuition fees and exam dates. Now they demand political changes. This undermines democracy—protests shouldn’t replace elections.”
He wrapped up by calling for reconciliation and dialogue, emphasizing Serbia’s stability and future while reminding that students are paying the highest price in this conflict.
