Rulers under pressure: Directional election decides on the future of Serbia
The country's citizens have the choice between the autocrat Vucic and the list of the democratic student movement. The outcome is uncertain. This is what's at stake for Europe.
Around 6.5 million Serbs are voting on Sunday to elect a new parliament. The snap election will determine not only the 250 seats but also the country's future direction: towards a democratic future with potential EU membership or an autocratic path inspired by Russia, led by Aleksandar Vucic. Vucic, leader of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), has been in power since 2012 and faces criticism for corruption, undermining democracy, and ties to organized crime.
A new student movement, sparked by a 2024 tragedy in Novi Sad, is challenging Vucic's rule with a list of candidates led by Ilija Srdanovic, and some polls suggest they may win. A victory for the student list could pave the way for serious EU discussions, which is in the interest of Europe given Serbia's current stance on Russia and stalled EU accession talks.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's report — not a translation of it. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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