Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stepped down from the presidency in September and is now campaigning for the prime minister position in upcoming parliamentary elections, which many view as particularly competitive for Serbia.
Helena Ivanov, an associate fellow at the Henry Jackson Society, expressed that this election poses a significant challenge for Vucic, who has been in power for 14 years. She noted that the student protesters have effectively captured public attention and maintained momentum in ways the established opposition couldn’t.
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Marko Djuric, the Serbian Foreign Minister, suggested that the student opposition is unlikely to succeed, arguing that years of criticism have failed to convince many that they offer a credible vision for the country’s future.
He praised Vucic’s economic leadership and the Strategic Dialogue with the U.S., suggesting it would enhance cooperation and opportunities for Serbian citizens. In an earlier interview, Vucic highlighted the country’s economic transformation, referencing a growth from a GDP of 32 billion euros when he entered office to over 100 billion euros projected this year. He also emphasized the evolving relationship between Washington and Belgrade, focusing on economic collaboration and shared conservative values.
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has proposed the Supporting the Rule of Law, Building Institutional Justice, and Accountability Act (SRBIJA), aimed at addressing democratic backsliding in Serbia. The legislation seeks to condition aid on progress towards judicial accountability, press freedoms, and alignment with EU and NATO standards.
This group of lawmakers, which includes Representatives from both parties, has shown a particular interest in Vucic’s administration and its impact over the years.
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Concerns are growing about the potential for a hostile environment during the upcoming election, with some fearing the current government may not honor the results if the Student List, a newcomer in politics, triumphs.
Vucic, who has served as president since 2017 after a prior term as prime minister from 2014, resigned and dissolved parliament in September, paving the way for snap elections on October 25.
Throughout his presidency, he has walked a tightrope between Eastern and Western powers, seeking legitimacy in Europe while maintaining ties with Russia, particularly under circumstances following the Ukraine invasion.
Unlike previous elections, the student-led opposition, born out of protests, has gained significant traction, mobilizing popular support for a cause that speaks to a broader discontent. Anti-corruption protests had been particularly intense since late 2024, catalyzed by public outcry over accountability following a railway station disaster.
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The protests, particularly large marches, criticized the government for not holding anyone accountable for the tragedy. Given the lack of governmental responsiveness to their demands, the students transitioned to seeking political power, unlike the traditional opposition that faltered in their challenge against Vucic’s ruling party.
The Student List comprises diverse civil society figures mainly drawn from academic backgrounds and does not include members from Serbia’s established opposition parties. They operate without a defined leader, focusing on issues related to corruption and governance transparency.
Filip Ubović, a university student involved in the protest movement, remarked on the motivation behind their activism, expressing a desire to effect change rather than merely complain about the political climate. He emphasized their connection to the public as “their kids,” differentiating themselves from established politicians.
Ivana Stradner from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies pointed out that corruption has hindered progress and democracy in the Balkans. She emphasized that the youth’s demand for accountability is crucial and should not be overlooked by international observers, as it aligns with broader strategic interests.
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The pressing question is whether the Student List can turn their popular support from the protests into a viable political strategy to secure election victory and govern effectively in a political landscape that hasn’t seen a significant shift in over a decade.
If they do win, how their approach to foreign policy and relations with the U.S. might change remains uncertain. So far, they have not outlined clear foreign policy objectives distinct from the incumbents, leading some experts to expect continuity in that aspect.
According to Sinisa Vukovic, the Serbian foreign policy has remained consistent, and critical issues like Kosovo and EU membership continue to linger unresolved. Any significant changes in Serbia’s foreign policy direction, particularly regarding Russia and the West, seem uncertain at this juncture, with the likelihood of ongoing close ties to Russia.
