Serbian government criticized by SRCE over Air Serbia aid and partisan job cuts

The opposition party Srbija centar (SRCE) accused the Serbian government of protecting the national carrier Air Serbia by restricting competition. SRCE warned that measures threatening the Wizz Air base at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport could lead to higher ticket prices, fewer destinations and reduced connectivity. The party quoted its statement: “Serbia cannot speak about European integration while deviating from basic European principles of free market, competition and equal rules for all participants.”

SRCE also condemned the provincial administration, led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), for relocating and dismissing civil servants who are not SNS members. The party described the practice as political discrimination, a breach of labor rights and intimidation, calling for immediate protection of affected employees, an end to partisan dismissals and transparent criteria for staff re‑assignments.