Serbia and the EU: A Love on Shaky Ground
Did you know that less than half of Serbians today want their country to join the European Union? Yes, you read that right! According to domestic polls, support for the EU in Serbia has dropped below 50%, while sympathies for Russia are rising as if Putin himself waved a magic wand.
What’s going on with Serbia?
While Europe keeps wagging its finger and criticizing Belgrade for selling arms to Ukraine, Serbia finds itself in a strange spot. President Vučić recently celebrated Victory Day in Russia, and now faces accusations from Moscow of betraying friendship. Is this a diplomatic tango or just chaos?
Student protests without the EU flag?
Imagine this: thousands of students cycling over 1,000 kilometers to draw attention to the country’s problems, and the EU flag? Nowhere to be seen! European officials have noticed and admitted that EU support in Serbia is at its lowest in the region.
Kosovo: The stumbling block
The main stumbling block is Kosovo. Most Serbs oppose recognizing Kosovo’s independence, and the EU membership condition is exactly that. It’s like being told, “Want a car? But first sell your house!” No wonder support for the EU dropped from 43% to just 32% over the last decade.
Russia as a powerful ally?
While Europe sends billions of euros in aid to Serbia, Serbs look to Moscow as a true friend. More than half of Serbian citizens see Russia as the most important political ally, while the EU remains second as an economic partner. Although Serbia has not imposed sanctions on Russia, Brussels demands alignment of foreign policy, complicating matters further.
What do the experts say?
Professor Roberto Beloni from the University of Bologna says Putin is a symbol for many Serbs of a strong leader standing up to the “arrogant West.” Political analysts also note that the EU fails to position itself amid Serbia’s political polarization, further reducing its relevance.
Conclusion: EU or Russia?
Serbia stands at a crossroads. On one side, billions of euros in aid and economic cooperation with the EU. On the other, an emotional and political bond with Russia, which for many Serbs symbolizes resistance and strength. While Kosovo talks stall and students protest without the EU flag, the question remains – where does Serbia really want to go?
If you thought this was just another boring political story, think again. This is drama with real actors, real conflicts, and real consequences. So, what flag would you carry at a protest? Or maybe none at all? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s on which side!
