Vučić announces snap parliamentary elections in October

Serbia is preparing for snap parliamentary elections in October after months of antigovernment protests, President Aleksandar Vučić announced in a televised address on Thursday evening. Vučić mentioned 18 or 25 October as possible dates but did not say when he will formally resign to trigger a presidential vote.

Background and timing

On 27 June he told the public he would step down “within a few weeks” to pave the way for extraordinary parliamentary and presidential elections; this is the first time he has given concrete possible dates. Regular elections had been scheduled for December 2027.

Vučić has held power for twelve years, alternating between the offices of president and prime minister. Analysts say that if his party wins the snap parliamentary vote he could assume the post of prime minister — a move that, they argue, would keep real political power concentrated in his hands regardless of the formal title he holds.

Serbia is a candidate for membership of the European Union, but maintains close relations with Russia and China. Brussels has repeatedly said Serbia must strengthen the rule of law, improve conditions for free and fair elections, and step up the fight against corruption and organised crime before accession can progress.

The opposition accuses Vučić and his allies of violence against political opponents, widespread corruption, ties to organised crime and suppression of media freedoms. Vučić and his supporters deny those allegations.

The protests accelerated after the canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station in November 2024, which killed 16 people. Demonstrations that followed were largely driven by students and focused on corruption and accountability. Vučić said the exact election date will be announced in the coming days; he may, critics note, remain influential even if he changes office after the vote.

Photo: press material from the event