Ilija Srdanović leads Serbian student movement into political elections

The Serbian student movement is transitioning into a direct political confrontation ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. Ilija Srdanović, a cardiologist from Novi Sad and leader of the “Studenti pobeđuju” (Students Win) list, has become a central figure in this shift.

Political opponents, including President Aleksandar Vučić, have raised allegations regarding Srdanović’s potential links to former Montenegrin President Milo Đukanović. These claims stem from leaked communications suggesting Srdanović acted as a physician for Đukanović. Srdanović has categorically denied any political ties to the former Montenegrin leader.

In recent statements, Srdanović characterized the political struggle not as a personal battle against Vučić, but as a choice between “Serbia or the mafia.” He has declined invitations for televised debates with Vučić, viewing them as tactics to personalize the movement. Srdanović emphasized that the movement aims to combat organized crime and corruption, prioritizing the rule of law and European integration through chapters 23 and 24 of the EU accession process.