The rector of the University of Belgrade, Vladan Đokić, shared with the German weekly Der Spiegel that the situation in Serbia is currently very fragile and troubling. He emphasized the majority of media actions and unfair electoral conditions as key issues facing the nation.

In the interview, Đokić described the condition at the University of Belgrade as “extremely challenging,” noting that “arrests occur daily.”

“Students are hesitant to leave the faculty premises. Individuals in plain clothes, masquerading as police officers, are attempting to detain students. Last week, authorities attempted to storm the Faculty of Law, which Serbian law permits only in extraordinary situations,” Đokić stated.

He also highlighted that the core issues in Serbia are unfair electoral conditions and the prevalent media landscape, where most outlets “promote the government through aggressive rhetoric and misinformation, warranting a reform of media laws.”

“Fundamental prerequisites for fair elections are essential. That is why students aspire to present their own candidates, comprising individuals previously uninvolved in politics: professors, artists, athletes, and other civil society representatives. The goal is not to form a political party but to transform the system and facilitate future fair elections,” Đokić explained.

He further revealed that authorities have lodged numerous criminal complaints against him, alleging abuse of power and discrimination against students for the absence of lectures during protests.

“Daily, my colleagues and I face attacks from pro-government media and from the government itself. We are labeled anarchists, state adversaries, and terrorists. Additionally, our university is under financial strain due to salary reductions and fines,” he added.

When questioned about the intensified actions of Serbian state authorities against demonstrators, Đokić remarked that the pressure from students and citizens is “escalating, with more frequent street blockades.”

“Incidents are occurring. Even during this summer, while many are on holiday, support for the protests remains strong. Consequently, police response towards demonstrators and universities is becoming increasingly aggressive,” Đokić noted.

Đokić mentioned that although President Aleksandar Vučić’s party retains a majority in Parliament, it is “evident that they have lost public support.”

“They continue to wield power and have no intention of relinquishing it, which is why early elections are not being considered. However, students have accomplished something significant by uniting the aspirations of the entire nation. Historically, many individuals in Serbia abstained from public engagement, but that has changed now,” Đokić stated.

Many now perceive that the European Union backs Vučić’s party. A clear show of support for the students’ call for early elections would be beneficial.

When asked by the German publication if he felt disappointed, Đokić admitted, “indeed, I do.”

“Discussions regarding Serbia’s EU accession have dragged on for an extensive period, and growing numbers of people are losing interest. Many now suspect that the European Union endorses Vučić’s party. A distinct endorsement of the students’ demand for early elections would aid considerably, particularly since their requests align with the conditions for EU membership,” Đokić remarked.

He also assessed that the situation in the country is “exceedingly fragile and concerning.”

“The next parliamentary elections are not scheduled for another two years, and public dissatisfaction is escalating. I believe new elections would represent the only democratic and peaceful resolution,” said the rector of the University of Belgrade.

When questioned about his strong support for the protests as the rector of Serbia’s largest university, Đokić replied that the blockades and demonstrations began following attacks on students—likely orchestrated by the government—after the collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad train station.

“Many of my colleagues stand with the students, as do I, because they merely seek for institutions to function properly and aspire to live in a genuine democracy. They represent the future of our nation,” Đokić concluded.

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