Following Aleksandar Vučić’s electoral defeat in Serbia, Green politician Boris Mijatovic has called upon the German government and the EU Commission to approach the West Balkan country with greater conviction. Speaking to the German news network, Mijatovic stated that “The European Union needs to be more consistent, accessible, and present if it wants to mend fences here.” He added that this sentiment applies to the German government as well, arguing that “just dropping by every now and then is certainly not the right way to convince Serbia to join the EU.”
Mijatovic suggested that the EU accession process for Serbia could be accelerated under the new government, which was founded by a successful student list. His reasoning is that if Belgrade hosts a future government committed to democracy and the rule of law, the accession process could gain momentum. He stressed that for the new government to begin work quickly, Europe must offer concrete support. International recognition is necessary to help restore democratic and legal structures, viewing the election as a “huge moment for the country – as if finally a cork has popped out of a bottle.”
Mijatovic described Vučić’s swift acceptance of his defeat as a “poisoned gift.” He warned that Vučić could use his position as opposition leader to undermine the new government. He clarified that the student list is not yet a fully formed party with a clear, comprehensive program, but rather is still in the process of finding its direction. Nevertheless, the general public harbors enormous expectations that something will change.
However, according to Mijatovic, change cannot be achieved overnight in many areas. He pointed out that many critical structures-including ministries, the airport, telephone companies, and the secret services-remain dominated by Vučić’s loyalists. “That allows for much blocking,” he stated. He also acknowledged that Vučić could remain relevant by continuing to “stay in the business” and internationally marketing the fact that he is a democrat who respects election results. Bundestagsdeputy Mijatovic had observed the election in Serbia firsthand as an OSCE election observer.
