Serbia is witnessing a closely contested election where a new political movement, largely driven by students and professionals, presents the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vučić and his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). The "Student List - Students Win" movement, born from nearly two years of anti-corruption protests, aims to unseat Vučić, who has dominated Serbian politics for years.
The Student List candidates, who have no prior political experience, are presented as experts in their respective fields, including academia, sports, economics, and engineering. Ilija Srdanović is listed as a candidate, though not necessarily the primary choice for prime minister if the movement were to win. "We offer to our citizens the core values of civilised society, which this previous regime has taken away from our citizens for the last time," Srdanović stated. Aleksandra, a student at Novi Sad University, expressed the movement's vision: "We've gathered people who are actually the best in their fields, and we really think that they are competent enough to rule the country." She further elaborated that the movement champions a country where freedom of speech prevails and citizens feel safe.
Supporters of the Student List accuse Vučić and the SNS of dominating state institutions and media coverage. An International Election Observation Mission report from the 2023 parliamentary election noted an "overwhelming ruling party advantage" attributed to media bias and the misuse of public office and resources. Protests have frequently followed, with participants alleging government corruption and a lack of accountability. Analyst Magda Anastasijevic of ACLED noted that while Vučić has historically navigated such challenges, the current situation presents a distinct problem for his administration.
On the international stage, Vučić has maintained a delicate balance, pursuing European Union membership talks while preserving close ties with Russia and China, neither of whom recognize Kosovo's independence from Serbia. Vučić has warned that these foreign relations could be altered if the Student List were to gain power, questioning their stance on potential sanctions against Russia. At a pre-election rally, he stated, "When you ask them: will you impose sanctions on Russia? Silence, umming and ah-ing, but no answer." He urged voters to consider who truly has Serbia's best interests at heart.
The campaign's closing events highlighted the contrasting styles of leadership. The SNS held a rally at Belgrade Arena featuring Vučić as the sole speaker. Conversely, the Student List reportedly drew 150,000 people to Slavija Square for an event featuring both students and candidates, showcasing a collective approach. The outcome of the election will determine whether the electorate favors a singular strong leader or a more collaborative form of governance.