News / Europe

Serbia Nationalist Opposition Holds Anti-Government Rally

People waving Serbian flags crowd a square in front of the General Assembly building during an anti-government rally in Belgrade, February 5, 2011
TEXT SIZE - +

Tens of thousands of Serbian opposition supporters have rallied against the government, calling for early elections and economic reforms.

The protest was organized by Serbian Progressive Party leader Tomislav Nikolic who addressed the crowd in front of the parliament building in the capital, Belgrade.

Serbian police estimate at least 55,000 people gathered for the rally. Other witnesses say the crowd was closer to 70,000.  

Nikolic called for higher wages and an end to government corruption. He referenced recent street protests in Tunisia and Egypt, saying governments around the world are learning they need to listen to the people.

Parliamentary elections are scheduled for 2012 in Serbia but the opposition wants them held sooner.

Nikolic's nationalist opposition party has been gaining in popularity in recent months as Serbia struggles to recover from the global economic recession.

Rising prices, unemployment and poverty has led to discontent with Serbia's pro-European Union government.

Police say the rally has been mostly peaceful though a few protesters have had to be detained.

You May Like

Video Egypt's Conservative Rural Vote Appears Split

Early speculation after the first two-day round is showing a race too close to call More

NATO Continues Plans for Missile Defense

While Afghanistan dominated talks in Chicago, member states also reaffirmed their commitment to ballistic-missile defense More

War Declared on Invasive Leaping Asian Carp

When Asian carp were first imported decades ago, few foresaw their environmental impact. More

This forum has been closed.
Comments
     
There are no comments in this forum. Be first and add one
Blog | Russia Watch

Move Russia’s Capital from Moscow to Siberia?

More

Join Russia and USA by Rail Tunnels under the Bering Strait?

More

Kremlin to Viktor Bout: Game Not Over

More

Kremlin TV Channel to US: No Reset

More

Putin to NATO: Yankees, Please Stay in Afghanistan

More
Read more