A gathering in Niksic, Montenegro, remembered the victims of tragedies in Novi Sad and Jablanica, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles for justice. The event, titled “PEOPLE FOR PEOPLE: Niksic for Novi Sad and Jablanica,” took place at Trg Slobode on the evening of March 15, 2024. Organized by the Korina Association, the gathering marked the anniversary of two devastating incidents that occurred in 2022 and 2023.
The assembly served as a tribute to the 16 victims who lost their lives when a reconstructed canopy at the railway station in Novi Sad collapsed, as well as the 19 victims who died from debris caused by a landslide in Donja Jablanica, triggered by a flood. The aftermath of these events saw a total of 27 people perish due to severe flooding in the area.
This gathering highlighted the need for accountability and reform in the face of systemic corruption and negligence. The organizers emphasized that these tragedies reflect a broader issue of public safety and institutional accountability in the region.
In March 2023, a fire in a nightclub in Kocani, North Macedonia, which was operating illegally, resulted in the deaths of 62 young individuals aged between 15 and 24, while more than 200 others sustained injuries. The incident drew public outrage and raised questions regarding regulatory enforcement in entertainment venues.
Residents of Cetinje, Montenegro, have also been vocal following a mass shooting earlier this year that claimed the lives of 13 individuals. They have regularly blocked main roads, demanding that the government address the circumstances leading to both this and previous tragedies.
The solidarity event in Niksic not only honored those who lost their lives but also served as a rallying cry for citizens seeking justice and reform. The message was clear: the community must not forget the lessons of these tragedies, nor the ongoing fight for truth and justice for victims and their families.
As the region continues to grapple with the consequences of these events, the collective memory and activism of its citizens play a crucial role in advocating for change and accountability.
