Ana Brnabić becomes Serbia’s Acting President

Ana Brnabić has become the Acting President of Serbia, marking her as the first openly gay head of state in the Balkans. Brnabić assumed the role on 28 September following the resignation of Aleksandar Vučić.

Vučić stepped down ahead of snap parliamentary elections scheduled for 25 October, expressing intent to return to government as prime minister. Under Serbian law, Brnabić transitioned into the presidency from her position as Speaker of the National Assembly. Her tenure is temporary, as the country is required to hold a presidential election within three months.

Brnabić previously made history in 2017 as Serbia’s first female and first openly lesbian prime minister. While her elevation provides significant visibility for LGBTQ+ communities in a region facing social and legal inequalities, advocates note that her political tenure has not yet resulted in major legal reforms, such as the recognition of same-sex marriage or civil unions in Serbia.