The Unlikely Mother of a Movement: On a Hunger Strike to Avenge Her Son

Tragedy That Ignited a Nation

On a cold December morning in 2022, a catastrophic collapse at the Stari Grad railway station in Serbia claimed the lives of 15 workers, including Dijana Hrka’s 28‑year‑old son, Marko. The disaster, later linked to alleged corruption and shoddy construction, sparked outrage across the country.

From Mourning Mother to Protest Symbol

Within weeks, Dijana appeared at the site of the tragedy, holding a single white rose and demanding accountability. Her raw grief and unwavering resolve resonated with citizens fed up with a government they believed had turned a blind eye to safety standards. Soon, her image—standing before the ruined platform, eyes red from tears—became the emblem of the burgeoning anti‑government protests.

The Hunger Strike

In March 2024, frustrated by the lack of concrete action from authorities, Dijana announced a 30‑day hunger strike. She set up a modest tent outside the National Assembly, refusing food until the investigation into the railway collapse is reopened and the officials responsible are prosecuted.

Supporters gather daily, chanting slogans, lighting candles, and delivering water and medical assistance. International human‑rights groups have issued statements urging the Serbian government to respect her peaceful protest and to expedite the judicial process.

What Lies Ahead?

As the strike enters its third week, the pressure on Prime Minister Jelena Petrović’s administration intensifies. Opposition parties have pledged to introduce a parliamentary inquiry, while the ruling coalition faces mounting criticism from both domestic and foreign observers.

Whether Dijana’s personal sacrifice will translate into tangible reforms remains uncertain, but her determination has already reshaped the public discourse, turning a grieving mother into the unlikely face of a nationwide demand for justice.