In Serbia, the Vucic era has ended: The student-backed list emerged from the polls with a victory.

After the early general elections held in Serbia, attention turned to the statements of Aleksandar Vucic, who has played a decisive role in the country's politics for many years.

Having stepped down from the presidential post to run for prime minister, Vucic admitted that the alliance he leads, "Aleksandar Vucic – United Serbia," fell behind in the election.

Before final results were announced, Vucic, in his assessment, said that the Student List backed by students could win between 135 and 140 seats, while his own alliance would remain at about 105 seats.

Speaking about the defeat, Vucic said they were ready to assume the opposition role, adding, "As the opposition, we will do what is required of us. The struggle continues."

The Novi Sad Tragedy Fueled the Student Movement

In spreading protests against the government to a wide audience in Serbia, the collapse tragedy that occurred at the train station in Novi Sad on 1 November 2024 proved decisive. The fall of the concrete entrance arch at the station claimed 16 lives.

After Facian, audits in public projects, corruption allegations, and discussions of officials' accountability began. University students organized protests demanding the disclosure of documents related to the incident and accountability of those responsible. Over time, the protests spread across the country, turning into a broad anti-government movement.

Students have moved to the fore ahead of the traditional opposition.

The student movement participated in elections with the candidates it supported, aiming to form an independent political alternative from existing opposition parties. Under the name "Student List," a coalition of academics, doctors, artists, and professionals from various professional groups was formed.

Among the prominent demands of the movement are fighting corruption, strengthening the independence of public institutions, ensuring the supremacy of law, and democratic reforms.

After nearly two years of protests, the movement entering elections has constituted one of the most serious political confrontations to date for the Vucic administration.

Mass protests in Belgrade drew attention.

The rallies held in the capital Belgrade before the election revealed the support the student movement had achieved. Protesters from different regions of the country who came to the capital called for a change of government and accountability.

The student movement highlighted anti‑corruption and the independence of institutions from political influence during the campaign. Vucic, however, argued that the movement was backed by foreign powers.

Vucic Resigns from the Presidency to Run for Prime Minister

The Serbian Progressive Party, which has been influential in Serbian politics since 2012, aimed to maintain its position in power under Vucic's leadership. Vucic was elected president in 2017, and in September 2026 he had stepped down from the presidency to become a prime‑minister candidate in the early general elections.

However, Vucic's statement acknowledging that his own coalition had fallen behind in the elections held on 25 October opened the door to a new political era in the country.

Formation of a New Government Expected

According to estimates announced by Vucic, the Student List could win 135 to 140 seats in parliament, while its own coalition may remain around 105 seats. However, these figures are not finalized official results; they are based on assessments made on election night.

In Serbia, the official results are expected to be announced, the seat distribution in parliament to be finalized, and steps toward forming a new government to be taken in the coming period. In the EU‑candidate country, how the new administration will tackle corruption, uphold the rule of law, and pursue economic reforms will also be closely monitored.