Vučić Awards Vidovdan Decorations: Glory, Politics, and Responsibility All in One Day!
Vidovdan, a day heavy with history, tradition, and patriotism in Serbia, this year was marked by pomp and political messages. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić personally awarded Vidovdan decorations to deserving individuals and institutions in a ceremony that was a true parade of power, success, and national pride.
Who received the orders?
Recipients came from various fields: politics, culture, science, and sports. Radovan Višković, Prime Minister of Republika Srpska, received the Order of the Republic of Serbia for strengthening friendly relations with Serbia. Andrija Mandić, President of the Parliament of Montenegro, was honored for preserving Serbian identity in Montenegro.
In science, professors from medical and law faculties, such as Prof. Dr. Vladan Petrov and Prof. Dr. Aleksandar Mitić, were recognized for their contributions to Serbia’s development. In culture, renowned violinist Jovan Kolundžija and publicist Dragoljub Kojičić received orders for representing Serbia internationally.
A particularly emotional moment was the posthumous decoration of Aleksandar Grbović, the youngest colonel of his generation, who left a significant mark in the military and civil sectors. His son Lazar accepted the order on his behalf.
What did Vučić say?
In his speech, Vučić emphasized that Vidovdan is not just a day of remembrance but a symbol of strength, unity, and patriotism. He posed a question echoing through Serbian history: “What are you ready to do for your country?”
He stressed that the recipients bear great responsibility, not only before the state but also before themselves. “The Order of the Republic of Serbia carries a responsibility greater than you can imagine,” Vučić said.
Vidovdan as a symbol and political tool
Vidovdan has been a symbol of Serbian identity and political messages for centuries. Professor Vladan Petrov, on behalf of the laureates, thanked Vučić and highlighted Vidovdan’s importance as “the victory of reason over force, freedom over occupation.”
The ceremony concluded with the song “Vidovdan,” further stirring emotions and national pride.
Why does this matter?
Such ceremonies are more than formalities. They are opportunities to highlight individuals who have contributed to Serbia in various ways and to send political messages about unity, patriotism, and the country’s future. At a time when Serbia balances between challenges and opportunities, Vidovdan and the decorations remind us of the power of unity and responsibility.
Is there room for criticism?
Of course, every major ceremony and political event carries criticism. Some may say the decorations are politically motivated, used to strengthen power, or that too much attention is given to symbols rather than real issues. But regardless, Vidovdan remains a day when Serbia looks into its roots and contemplates its future.
Conclusion
Vidovdan decorations are more than medals and orders. They are stories of people who have contributed to Serbia in their own way. It is a day to celebrate history, culture, and patriotism, and a day to remember the responsibility we bear towards our country.
So, what do you think? Who deserves an order, and who is just another player on the political stage? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard — because Vidovdan is not just a day, it’s a conversation with Serbia’s past and future!
The ceremony was held with the Serbian anthem “Bože pravde” and ended with the song “Vidovdan.” Among the recipients were athletes, cultural workers, professors, politicians, and public figures. The order was also awarded to the Serbian Water Polo Federation, and among the honorees were journalists and musicians.
