Serbia Holds Snap Parliamentary Elections

Serbia is voting in snap parliamentary elections to elect 250 members of the National Assembly, Turkey's state-run news agency Anadolu Agency reported.

The elections come amid months of student-led protests and political tensions following a tragic incident in November 2024, in which a railway station canopy collapse in Novi Sad resulted in 16 fatalities.

Leading political figures, including former President Aleksandar Vucic, Socialist leader Ivica Dacic, and student-backed candidate Ilija Srdanovic, have cast their ballots, calling for a peaceful and democratic vote.

Vucic, head of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party, expressed hope for a peaceful election day and pledged to respect the outcome, saying his party would accept defeat if they lose.

Ivica Dacic, leader of the Socialist Party of Serbia, emphasized the importance of political stability during turbulent times, calling for a peaceful election day and a stable result for his coalition.

Ilija Srdanovic, lead candidate of the student-backed list, predicted record voter turnout, citing the large number of voters arriving at polling stations early in the morning.

A total of 18 electoral lists, comprising 2,418 candidates, are competing for parliamentary seats, with 6,451,292 voters registered to participate.

Polling stations opened at 7 am local time and are scheduled to close at 8 pm, with domestic and international observers supervising the voting process.

A party or coalition needs at least 126 seats in the 250-member parliament to secure a majority and form a government.

Background Serbia has a complex history of political instability and tensions, particularly with neighboring countries. The country has been a candidate for European Union membership since 2009.

The student-led protests that have been ongoing for months reflect growing concerns about the country's direction and the need for change.

Context The snap parliamentary elections were called after months of protests and growing political tensions. The outcome will be crucial in determining the country's future direction and its relations with the European Union and other neighboring countries.