Serbia Country Report

Serbia is a relatively stable democratic republic in eastern Europe. It is situated at the crossroads of central and south-east Europe on the southern Pannonian Plain of the central Balkans. A former founding member of Yugoslavia, the country has been an independent democratic republic since the dissolution of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. The country is relatively well developed and has long-term ambitions to join the European Union, although it also adheres to a policy of military neutrality.

Civil unrest occasionally occurs and tensions with neighboring Kosovo present a limited conflict threat given the regional NATO presence. Foreigners do not face a significant risk of terrorism in Serbia and most terrorist activities have been related to support for plots outside the country. Crime presents one of the primary threats facing visitors. Petty theft, including pick-pocketing, poses a threat at airports and on public transport, whilst more major crimes like vehicle break-ins and muggings are frequently reported. Violent crime is also often linked to organized criminal groups who may pose a threat to unsuspecting bystanders.

There are no serious risks associated with air travel to the country, although hazardous local driving habits and poor road conditions can make overland travel in Serbia dangerous. Medical care is variable and physicians in Serbia are well-trained, but hospitals and clinics may lack equipment and supplies. Serbia lies in a seismically active zone, making it susceptible to earthquakes. The country also experiences frequent wild forest fires, landslides, and flooding. Unexploded landmines and other ordinances are frequently found in border regions of the country.

Over the last decade Serbia has improved its relations with neighboring states, most of which are members or candidates for membership of NATO, reducing the risk of resurgent regional conflict. However, political events occurring in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina may spark localized violence along ethnic lines within Serbia itself. Opportunistic crimes against travelers, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching are common and organized criminals may also target foreign travelers. Most protests in Belgrade and other major towns/cities are usually peaceful, however demonstrators may resort to violence in certain situations.

There are no safety concerns over air travel in Serbia.

Road traffic accidents are common because of poor local driving habits and poorly maintained vehicles.

The Port of Belgrade is considered efficient.

Access to utilities in the main cities is good, although service delivery may be poor in rural areas. There is a significant difference between internet access rates in urban and rural areas.

There are increasing concerns over the threat from cyber-attacks, which can cause damage to the country's economy.

Continuous, heavy rainfall can trigger extensive flooding in Serbia. Floods and landslides can damage property and block roads. Serbia lies in a seismically active zone, although most earthquakes are of minor to moderate intensity and cause minimal damage and casualties. There is a significant threat of unexploded ordinance (UXO) and landmines.

Medical facilities are limited and are not up to Western standards. Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Most essential medications are available at pharmacies. However, medications may be under unfamiliar names.

Serbia is a unitary, multi-party parliamentary republic. The President is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. Presidential elections take place once every five years. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet form the government and exercise executive power. The unicameral parliament, or the National Assembly, exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. Snap parliamentary elections were called several times in the past in response to political developments. The judiciary is nominally independent of the executive and the legislature but is widely regarded as corrupt and under the control of the executive and senior legislators.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are moderately competent and provide unreliable services outside Belgrade.