EXPO 2027: Serbia Rushes Construction After Deadly Collapse, Sparking Safety Concerns

In Novi Sad, Serbia, a building collapse at the railway station on November 4th, 2024, resulted in fifteen casualties. This tragedy prompted immediate concerns regarding the timeline for the upcoming EXPO 2027. President Aleksandar Vučić expressed his apprehension, stating, "I have an impossible fear of whether we will manage to do everything by the end of 2026." In response to public outcry and the challenges of obtaining signatures for construction projects, the government introduced amendments to two key laws. These changes allow for the operation of EXPO-related buildings without usage permits and eliminate the requirement for environmental impact assessments. However, experts like [Expert's Name] from RERI, raise concerns about the potential risks to public safety due to the lack of proper oversight. "Without a permit, no one from the competent authorities checks the technical documentation and guarantees that the object is suitable for use," they warn. The government maintains that the anticipated number of visitors to EXPO 2027 will be comparable to major European events. While the expedited construction aims to ensure EXPO's success, the prioritization of speed over rigorous safety protocols remains a point of contention.