Serbian Vote: Student List Challenges Vučić in Tight Race

Serbian voters head to the polls on Sunday in a parliamentary contest that analysts predict will be extremely close. The result hinges on a battle between Aleksandar Vučić, who has held high office since 2012, and a new political force driven by students.

The Student List emerged from nearly two years of anti-corruption protests. These demonstrations began after a canopy collapsed at a railway station in Novi Sad, killing 16 people. University assemblies selected 250 candidates for the ballot, none of whom had prior political experience. The group includes academics, athletes, engineers, and economists.

Ilija Srdanović, a cardiologist and professor at Novi Sad University, tops the candidate list. He is not the movement's leader and would not automatically become prime minister if the group wins. Srdanović arrived for a media interview by motorbike, wearing a fluorescent yellow jacket with student slogans. He stated it is normal to stand with his students to help them in their fair struggle.

Vučić stepped down as president last month to run for prime minister. He cites economic growth and infrastructure improvements during his tenure as key achievements. However, he faces criticism for his handling of the Novi Sad disaster, which was part of a flagship high-speed rail project connecting Belgrade and Budapest. Magda Anastasijevic, an analyst at ACLED, noted that the canopy incident provided no clear scapegoat, unlike previous crises.

Critics argue that Vučić and his Serbian Progressive Party dominate state institutions and media. An international observation mission noted an overwhelming ruling party advantage in the 2023 vote due to media bias and the misuse of public resources. A pro-government camp has occupied a small park in central Belgrade for 18 months, where residents have repeatedly attacked journalists. Vučić has described this camp as a symbol of resistance.

Foreign policy issues have also entered the campaign. Serbia maintains close ties with Russia and China while pursuing EU membership. Vučić has warned that those links could be severed under a Student List government. At a rally, he questioned whether the group would impose sanctions on Russia.

The closing days of the campaign highlighted the contrast between the two sides. The ruling party filled Belgrade Arena with Vučić as the sole speaker. Meanwhile, a reported 150,000 people gathered in Slavija Square to hear from student candidates. Voters now choose between a single strong leader and a collective approach.