Serbia’s election and the student movement
International Politics
Last updated
The big picture
Serbia’s parliamentary election pits the governing party against a student-led challenge that grew out of mass protests. The movement gained strength after a railway-station canopy collapsed in November 2024, killing 16 people. Protesters blamed corruption and demanded accountability.
The contest concerns control of parliament and government, rather than a direct vote for president. Aleksandar Vučić resigned the presidency in September and is seeking a return as prime minister. Serbia’s relationships with the European Union, Russia and China are part of the wider stakes.
Where things stand
As of October 26, the student-backed movement has won a parliamentary majority. Its choice of prime minister remains unclear.
Key facts
- The student movement challenges a governing party that has dominated Serbian politics for years.
- The election chooses parliament; it is not a direct presidential runoff.
- Corruption, living standards and Serbia’s international alignment are major issues.
How we got here
Vučić resigns the presidency ahead of the parliamentary contest.
A large student-led rally gathers in Belgrade ahead of the election.
Serbia votes; the result is still pending in the reporting available here.
Vučić concedes defeat to the student-backed list.
What happens next
- Watch for appointments and government formation.