Serbian student protesters propose referendum on EU integration

Leaked documents from student protesters in Serbia suggest a plan to hold a referendum regarding the country’s European Union integration. The protesters reportedly aim to shift the responsibility for EU accession to the citizens, citing concerns that joining the EU could imply recognition of Kosovo’s independence.

Critics and diplomatic sources have characterized this move as populist marketing. Some analysts argue that the referendum effectively forces a choice between EU membership and the constitutional status of Kosovo, suggesting that supporting integration would inherently support Kosovo's independence.

In response to the ongoing unrest, political analysts suggest that President Aleksandar Vučić may be forced to shift his campaign tone. Rather than labeling protesters as state destroyers, there are indications of a strategic pivot to frame the students as ‘brothers and sisters’ to appeal to undecided voters and reduce political aggression.