Serbian students challenge populist leader in early parliamentary elections
Serbia’s university students are mobilising against the powerful populist leader Aleksandar Vucic in an early parliamentary election scheduled for this weekend, following nearly two years of mass anti-corruption protests, reports BritPanorama.
The former authoritarian president aims to return as prime minister after the October 25 vote, seeking to extend his right-wing party’s 14-year rule. However, the youth movement, which has already disrupted the political landscape during protests, stands in Vucic’s way.
As tensions run high, Vucic’s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and the youth-backed Students’ List are reportedly polling closely, leading to uncertainty about the election outcome and concerns about potential violence.
The students’ final campaign rally in Belgrade is anticipated to attract tens of thousands, showcasing their continuing momentum after weeks of marches and cycling events.
The driving force behind Serbia’s student movement was the demand for accountability following a tragic train station accident in November 2024 that claimed 16 lives. The ensuing protests, sparked by allegations of government corruption, gained widespread public support and contributed to a government collapse, unsettling Vucic’s administration.
According to psychology professor Aleksandar Baucal, this generational activism stems from a profound sense of injustice. “They realized that if they gave up, they would give up on their lives,” he said. “This has made them an opponent who can’t give up.”
Resilient amid government crackdowns, the student movement has evolved into a well-organised political force, one that commands significant support among Serbia’s 6.4 million eligible voters. Recently, they raised concerns that their meetings are being monitored and that new detentions may be orchestrated by authorities.
Key to their success is a leaderless structure that fosters democratic participation. Vukasin Djinovic, a student from Novi Sad, highlighted the importance of dismantling the personality cult surrounding political figures, emphasising principles of democracy, tolerance, and respect for diverse opinions.
This egalitarian approach, where all members contribute equally to discussions in various faculty assemblies, starkly contrasts Vucic’s centralised power model, characterised by a decisive top-down approach over his 12 years in power.
Vucic’s attempts to counter the student movement have included detentions and unfounded accusations of anti-state activities. However, supporters like Baucal argue that such pressure has only fortified the resolve and resilience of the students.
The Students’ List electoral ticket was carefully constructed through proposals and vetting sessions at universities nationwide. Candidates include teachers, professors, experts, and community figures, reflecting a broader commitment to solving issues of corruption and enhancing democratic institutions.
As the election date approaches, uncertainty looms. Vucic, recently resigned as president to contest in the election, has accused opponents of planning to undermine his party’s potential victory, despite his control over election authorities and the judiciary.
Past accusations against his SNS party involve voter pressure, bribery, and inflated electoral rolls—claims they have consistently denied. The European Union and international monitors have raised concerns about the integrity of the looming vote, with analysts fearing dual claims of victory on election night and a potential refusal by Vucic to concede if he loses.
“Students have shown clearly that they are the force, both as a generation and politically, that can bring about a change,” commented Aleksandra Krstic from Belgrade’s Faculty of Political Sciences, suggesting a budding hope for a different Serbia after years of the SNS regime. However, she cautioned, “we all fear extreme violence.”
