Serbia: Parliamentary elections to take place June 21

Event

Serbia will hold parliamentary elections on Sunday, June 21, in Europe's first national election since coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdowns began in March. Turnout is expected to be low due to fears of contracting COVID-19; polling stations will be equipped with face masks and hand sanitiser. President Aleksandar Vucic's conservative Progressive Party (SNS) are favourites to win the election. Some opposition parties are intending to boycott the election which they view as unfair due to Vucic's alleged control over the media.

A heightened security presence is possible around polling stations across Serbia. Demonstrations are to be anticipated on Sunday and over the coming days following the election.

Context

An SNS victory in the 2014 election meant Vucic became prime minister, having been the deputy prime minister for two years prior, although commentators say he was largely controlling things during his term as deputy. In 2017 he moved to the presidency and appointed Ana Brnabic as prime minister, whilst maintaining a firm hold on executive power. Opposition parties claim Mr Vucic's hold on power has started to erode Serbia's young democracy, many of whom are boycotting Sunday's election based on the fact that they don't feel the conditions for a free and fair election exist.

Advice

Individuals in Serbia are advised to monitor developments, avoid all political gatherings as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.