On Saturday, a significant demonstration took place in Belgrade, with estimates suggesting that between 275,000 and 325,000 people participated, according to independent counting organizations.

This marks the largest protest since President Aleksandar Vucic took office a decade ago and is one of the largest in modern Serbian history.

The Serbian Interior Ministry reported a figure of 107,000 participants.

Demonstrators gathered from noon, forming a vast crowd that marched peacefully through the capital, despite a few isolated incidents towards the end of the event.

This movement, which has gained momentum in Serbia similar to the protests of the 1990s, was sparked by the tragic roof collapse at a newly renovated train station in Novi Sad on November 1, which resulted in 15 fatalities.

Many Serbians view this incident as emblematic of systemic corruption affecting governmental institutions and public works.

Since that incident, protests have proliferated weekly, calling for accountability from those responsible, the release of arrested demonstrators, and a demand for less corrupt governance.

An attending student leader expressed pride in the movement's organization, stating, "We have united the country, generations, awakened solidarity and empathy, and shown that change is possible when we fight together." Around her, protesters displayed a variety of flags ranging from nationalist to far-left and environmentalist insignias, while chanting, "Pumpaj! Pumpaj!"—a slogan indicative of their resolve.

Many participants wore pins depicting a bloodied hand, a symbol of the movement that emphasizes the message, "Corruption kills." Participant Sandra Zlatanovic, 44, remarked on the significance of the event, stating it is a success for the students leading the protests.

Moma Milovanovic, 70, expressed admiration for the mobilization, calling it a representation of the 'real Serbia'.

The peaceful nature of the protest followed heightened tensions, as the government had accused demonstrators of being funded by foreign agencies and of potentially planning violent actions or a revolution.

Windows of government buildings were barricaded in anticipation of the event, with riot police positioned in front of the parliament, presidency, and city hall.

To maintain security, groups of motorcyclists, veterans, and student volunteer organizers formed a protective perimeter around the march, particularly near critical government buildings.

A statement from student leaders prior to the protest called for a peaceful and responsible demonstration, emphasizing that the movement's objective was not to disrupt governmental institutions nor attack dissenting voices.

The United Nations responded to the pre-protest tensions by urging Serbian authorities to refrain from interfering excessively in the demonstration and to uphold the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

In response to the events, President Aleksandar Vucic described Serbia as "an extremely democratic country" during a speech, insisting that he would ensure the security of the gathering.

He later expressed satisfaction that the protest concluded without casualties or serious injuries.

The crowd dispersed peacefully by 21:00 local time.