Serbia's youth have taken to the streets for over a year, demanding accountability from their government amid widespread corruption, yet they have largely been ignored by the European Union. Initially sparked by the tragic collapse of a train station canopy in Novi Sad that resulted in 16 deaths, the protests have since evolved to challenge the ruling party's corruption and seek broader democratic reforms. Despite significant public mobilization, the movement has not received the endorsement or support it hoped for from European institutions, raising questions about their commitment to democracy in the region.

The protests highlight a growing discontent among young Serbians, who feel frustrated by the lack of responsiveness from their government and disillusioned by the EU's apparent indifference. As these students rally for change, they aim to raise awareness of systemic corruption that permeates various facets of public life and infrastructure. This civic uprising indicates a potential shift in the political landscape of Serbia, as citizens become increasingly vocal about the need for transparency and accountability in governance.

The apparent neglect of the situation in Serbia by the EU is not only an issue of local concern but also poses broader implications for regional stability and democratic ideals in Eastern Europe. As Serbia's youth push for reform, their struggle invites scrutiny of the EU's policies towards candidate countries and raises critical questions about the European response to rising authoritarianism and corruption in the Balkans. The future of Serbia's integration into the EU remains uncertain, particularly if the bloc continues to overlook the demands of its young citizens for democratic change and engagement in their governance.