Vidovdan Protests: Is the State on the Brink of Control or Just a Show?
Vidovdan 2023 in Belgrade was anything but quiet. The protests were well-organized in advance, and the government reacted quickly and decisively, says Vladan Petrov, a law professor and constitutional court judge. But was everything really as the authorities want us to believe?
The State as a Chess Grandmaster
President Aleksandar Vučić showed a cold-bloodedness and strategic insight rarely seen. While protesters blocked roads and caused chaos, Vučić chose a tactic of non-intervention, letting opponents exhaust themselves. Like playing chess, Vučić made moves that broke the opponents’ pieces and established control over the entire game.
Police and Violence: Who’s Really to Blame?
During the protests, 48 police officers were injured, and 77 people were detained, including a minor. Authorities claim they acted timely and that the use of force was measured and necessary. But was it really so? Some say the violence was pre-planned, and that mostly peaceful Serbian citizens were victims of excessive repression.
Vučić’s Story of “Gratitude” and Turnarounds
Vučić also told an interesting story about a man he helped get a job and a 500-euro salary, who later joined protests against him. “Gratitude doesn’t last long,” the president said, hinting at how quickly people turn against those who helped them. This story only fuels the fire of discontent and doubts about political sincerity.
Political Manipulation of Vidovdan?
Some analysts and political commentators see Vidovdan as a powerful tool of manipulation. While the government uses the day to show its strength and legitimacy, the opposition and students use it to express dissatisfaction. Behind it all lies the Kosovo issue, which still divides society and political elites. Has Vidovdan become just another political instrument to maintain the status quo?
What’s Next?
Vladan Petrov believes extraordinary parliamentary elections are unnecessary unless there is complete dysfunction of institutions. Vučić, on the other hand, continues to build his position as an unshakable leader who knows how to control the situation. But is Serbia truly stable or just seemingly calm before a new storm?
Conclusion
The Vidovdan protests of 2023 revealed deep divisions in society. While the government claims everything is under control and that it acted professionally, many citizens and analysts see a different picture — a state playing with fire, using repression and manipulation to hold on to power. Vučić’s cold-blooded strategy may seem like a victory, but at what cost?
If you thought Serbian politics was boring, think again. These protests are just the beginning of a new phase in the power game. So, what do you think — is Vučić really a chess grandmaster or just a player afraid to lose? Drop a comment, let the people’s voice be heard!
