Serbia’s parliamentary election results delivered a defeat to the ruling coalition, with the opposition “Student List” securing over 52 percent of the vote and an absolute majority in parliament. The political shift follows two years of intense protests sparked by the 2024 railway station canopy collapse in Novi Sad that killed 16 people.
Student List Demands Resignations and Security Overhaul
Following the election victory, the student-led movement demanded the resignation of security and judicial leadership. The political pressure quickly yielded institutional changes as Manja Grčič resigned from her position as general director of public broadcaster RTS. The public broadcaster faced criticism throughout the two-year protest movement for allegedly ignoring or disparaging the demonstrations.
The “Student List” coalition specifically targeted the public broadcaster’s management in a formal letter, demanding the departure of Grčič, her deputy, and news editors. Non-governmental organizations and media associations urged the regulator to cancel the license of “Informer TV,” a private television channel viewed as loyal to Aleksandar Vučič, for repeated broadcast violations.
Geopolitical Stakes and Intelligence Network Disruption
The election outcome threatens what investigative journalist and Bellingcat founder Christo Grozev describes as one of Europe’s strongest Russian intelligence networks. Grozev noted on the social platform X that the ruling power had maintained close ties with Russian intelligence, including providing Serbian passports to operatives.
With the change in government, Russian intelligence services face the prospect of losing a sanctuary and base of operations for the Foreign Intelligence Service, known as the SVR. Observers are closely watching the fate of figures like Aleksandar Vulin, who until last year held the position of deputy prime minister and maintained deep ties with Russian security officials.
Uncertain Future for Foreign Policy and Sanctions
Despite defeating the ruling establishment, the new leaders may complicate relations with the European Union. During the campaign, representatives for the “Student List” indicated that the country’s reliance on Russian energy supplies reflects acute economic necessity rather than a geopolitical alliance.
Furthermore, leaders of the student movement announced that the incoming government plans to halt all Serbian arms exports to war zones, including sales routed through Western intermediaries intended for Ukraine. This policy shift breaks from the balancing act maintained by Aleksandar Vučič, who stepped down early and called the snap election.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the two years of protests that led to the election?
The demonstrations began as a reaction to the 2024 Novi Sad railway station canopy collapse. That structural failure resulted in the deaths of 16 people.
How did the public broadcaster react on election night?
On election night, RTS stopped its coverage of events in Belgrade after Aleksandar Vučič acknowledged the defeat of his political force. Thousands of people continued celebrating the victory in several capital districts until the early morning hours.
What was the margin of victory for the Student List?
The opposition movement captured more than 52 percent of the vote in the parliamentary election. That share gives the movement an absolute majority in parliament after competing against 18 lists.
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