The Take It Back Movement stands in unwavering solidarity with the students of Serbia, who have taken to the streets in pursuit of justice, accountability, and systemic change. The protests, sparked by the tragic collapse of the Novi Sad railway station roof—an avoidable disaster that claimed 15 innocent lives—are not just about one incident. They are a reflection of the deep-seated frustration with corruption, declining living standards, and growing youth unemployment in Serbia.
We stand with the students and the working people of Serbia in their rightful demand for good governance, transparency, and accountability.
The ongoing student uprising in Serbia is part of a broader, global wave of youth-led resistance against oppressive and dysfunctional governments. Over the last five years, Nigeria has witnessed a surge of youth activism—from the #RevolutionNow protests of 2019, the #EndSARS movement of 2020, to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests of 2024. In many countries, young people bear the brunt of economic hardship, state repression, and political failures. It is no surprise that from Nigeria to Kenya, Mozambique, and now Serbia, students and young people have consistently been at the forefront of the fight for justice and systemic change. Likewise, in America, Germany, and many parts of Europe, people are rising against attempts by the rich and privileged few to roll back decades of hard-won progress in human rights, equity, and social justice.
Nigerian students, in particular, must draw lessons from Serbia’s uprising. Over the last two years, they have been among the worst victims of relentless fee hikes, which have forced many out of school. The Serbian protests serve as a striking example of what Nigerian students—and students across Africa—must do to resist the attacks on public education and demand a system that serves the many, not just the privileged few. The struggle for free, quality, and accessible education is part of the larger fight against bad governance.
We strongly condemn the violent crackdowns unleashed on protesting students in Serbia. We call on the government of Aleksandar Vučić to respect their right to peaceful protest and to immediately halt all forms of repression. True solutions will not be found in violence or intimidation but in listening to the people and addressing their legitimate demands.
To the brave youths and students of Serbia: We salute your courage and resilience. Your defiance in the face of oppression is an inspiration to millions of young people and oppressed citizens around the world. Stay strong, dear comrades. We are watching. The world is watching. Those in power fear nothing more than our unity and collective resolve.
Together, we will put an end to this unjust system—one that impoverishes the many to protect the wealth and privilege of a few. Victory is certain!
Signed
Sanyaolu Juwon
National Coordinator,
Take It Back Movement, Nigeria.
Feb. 14, 2025
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