Serbia’s parliament descended into chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers set off smoke grenades and tear gas inside the legislative chamber, disrupting proceedings and escalating tensions over ongoing student-led protests. The turmoil resulted in at least two injuries, including a lawmaker who suffered a stroke.
The unrest comes amid four months of widespread demonstrations that began as student protests but have since expanded to include teachers, farmers, and other groups. The movement, considered the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vučić’s rule in a decade, has drawn support from citizens critical of the government’s handling of corruption and governance.
Tensions flared inside parliament shortly after the ruling coalition, led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), approved the legislative agenda. Opposition lawmakers rushed toward the parliamentary speaker’s podium, clashing with security guards, while others threw smoke grenades and tear gas into the chamber. Live television footage showed thick clouds of black and pink smoke filling the hall as lawmakers shouted and scuffled.
Parliamentary Speaker Ana Brnabić confirmed that two lawmakers were injured during the confrontation. One of them, SNS legislator Jasmina Obradović, suffered a stroke and was reported to be in critical condition. Brnabić condemned the disruption, stating, “The parliament will continue to work and to defend Serbia.”
Despite the chaos, the session resumed with ruling coalition members continuing to debate while opposition lawmakers attempted to disrupt proceedings by whistling, blowing horns, and holding protest signs. Some of the banners read “General strike” and “Justice for the killed,” referring to the 15 victims of a recent railway station roof collapse, which helped ignite the broader protest movement.
BREAKING: Chaos erupts in Serbia’s parliament. pic.twitter.com/tVB4lNa09s
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) March 4, 2025
Outside the parliament building, demonstrators gathered in silent tribute to the victims. Protest leaders called for a large-scale rally in Belgrade on March 15, signaling continued pressure on the government.
The ruling coalition has accused Western intelligence agencies of backing the demonstrations in an attempt to destabilize Serbia and remove the government from power.
During Tuesday’s session, lawmakers were expected to approve increased funding for universities, one of the students’ main demands after they began blocking faculty buildings in December. Parliament was also set to formally acknowledge the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević. However, opposition members objected to additional items placed on the agenda by the ruling coalition, which contributed to the escalation inside the chamber.
The ongoing protests and political unrest continue to pose a significant challenge to the government as demonstrations gain momentum across various sectors. Authorities have not indicated whether further measures will be taken in response to the disruption inside parliament or the continued street protests.
