Aleksandar Vucic has been a dominant figure in Serbian politics for over a decade, but his leadership has been met with both praise and criticism. Supporters view him as a pragmatic leader who has brought economic growth and stability to Serbia, while critics argue that he has consolidated too much power and undermined democratic norms. As he faces early elections and opposition from a united front, the outcome could significantly impact Vucic’s authority.
Born in Belgrade in 1970, Vucic experienced the breakup of Yugoslavia and the ensuing Balkan wars. In the 1990s, he joined the far-right Radical Party, known for its ultra-nationalist views. He expressed inflammatory rhetoric, including provocative statements following the Srebrenica massacre in 1995. Vucic’s political career took off when he served as information minister under strongman Slobodan Milosevic. During this time, he implemented restrictive laws on freedom of speech.
However, Vucic underwent a public transformation in 2008. He renounced his ultra-nationalism and founded the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), vowing to bring Serbia into the European Union. While some see this change as genuine, others argue that it was a strategic political move to solidify his power.
Throughout his tenure, Vucic has faced accusations of eroding democratic institutions and consolidating control of public institutions and the media. Critics believe that Serbia has moved away from the principles of democracy and closer to authoritarianism. The watchdog Freedom House ranks Serbia as only “partly free.”
Proponents of Vucic’s leadership point to Serbia’s economic growth under his rule, with the GDP doubling over the past decade. They credit his economic policies and successful governance for transforming Serbia into an advanced European economy. Vucic also highlights his efforts to maintain stable relations with Kosovo, despite historical tensions.
Vucic has carefully cultivated relationships with major geopolitical powers such as the European Union, Russia, and China. While expressing a desire for Serbia to join the EU, he has also fostered friendly ties with Russia and welcomed Chinese investment. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has made Serbia a focal point in Europe, with Chinese companies involved in infrastructure projects. Vucic’s balancing act between global actors has prompted accusations of pragmatism rather than a genuine pro-Russian stance.
The upcoming parliamentary and local elections on 17 December will be a crucial test for Vucic’s leadership, particularly in the capital city, Belgrade. Opposition parties, including the Serbia Against Violence coalition, have capitalized on public anger over recent mass shootings. Despite the opposition’s growing support, Vucic remains confident of victory and accuses his rivals of solely aiming to remove him from power.
The outcome of the elections will shape Serbia’s political landscape and potentially challenge Vucic’s authority. A victory for the united opposition, particularly in the mayoralty of Belgrade, could have a significant impact on his leadership. It remains to be seen whether Vucic’s pragmatic approach and economic successes will be enough to maintain his grip on power amidst growing opposition.
