Serbia faces election tensions over pensions and voter volatility

As elections approach in Serbia, the political landscape is marked by debates over pensioner welfare, voter uncertainty, and media independence. The political party Srbija centar (SRCE) has criticized government promises of one-time payments and pension increases, arguing that such measures cannot mask the fact that over 60 percent of pensioners live in poverty. SRCE has called for systemic changes to increase the pension fund's revenue and address historical injustices.

Simultaneously, polling data from CRTA and NSPM indicates high voter volatility. While the Studentska lista and the ruling SNS are competing for dominance, a significant portion of the electorate—between 25 and 30 percent—remains undecided.

In the media sector, tensions have risen following an attack on an RTS cameraman in Užice. RTS Director Manja Grčić defended the broadcaster against criticisms from ANEM, while Miloš Jovanović of the Nova Demokratska stranka has called on the public service to ensure political pluralism and respect journalistic codes during upcoming debates.

Regarding economic policy, President Aleksandar Vučić indicated that the specific percentage for pension increases will be determined within a week, based on the ratio of net pensions to GDP.