Serbian President Vučić hints at October‑November elections as protests demand early vote

On June 22, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Belgrade, chanting “We didn’t stop. We continue,” and demanding the resignation of a close ally of President Aleksandar Vučić, the calling of early elections and freer media. Police used batons and water cannons to disperse the crowd; authorities reported about 7,800 participants, while independent estimates put the number in the tens of thousands.

Vučić later addressed the nation on television, highlighting rapid economic gains – average wages rising from €330 in 2012 to over €1,000, health spending climbing to €220 million annually, and a surge in highway construction. He announced a new support package for pensioners, veterans and vulnerable groups, and said he does not resent the young protesters. Vučić added that “some elections could be held in October or November,” without specifying whether they would be parliamentary or presidential, and urged citizens to attend the Serbian Progressive Party’s large rally on June 27 in Belgrade.