# Serbian political and academic credential disputes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/serbian-political-and-academic-credential-disputes
> Updated: 2026-10-19T12:34:41.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Political tensions in Serbia have intensified following allegations from the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) regarding the academic credentials of Dejan Šoškić, a former Governor of the National Bank of Serbia and candidate for the Studentska lista. SNS members alleged that Šoškić did not meet the requirements for his professorship at the University of Belgrade, claiming certain scientific papers were not published when his application was initiated.

These allegations coincided with a sharp televised confrontation between Finance Minister Siniša Mali and Šoškić concerning Serbia’s economic performance, public debt, and growth data. Observers noted potential bias in the public broadcaster during the debate, as Šoškić’s microphone appeared muted compared to the Minister’s.

In response to the accusations, academic figures characterized the claims as a “smear campaign” designed to discredit political opponents. Counter-accusations were raised against high-ranking SNS officials, including allegations of plagiarism against Minister Mali and questions regarding the credentials of Belgrade Mayor Aleksandar Šapić. Analysts suggested these developments are a calculated attempt by the ruling regime to bolster its position amid unfavorable political conditions.

## Claims

- Dejan Pavlović claims the ruling party is using a smear campaign against competitors. (single source)
- SNS accuses Dejan Šoškić of illegal appointment to professor rank. (single source)
- Dejan Pavlović alleges Siniša Mali plagiarized his doctorate. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: SNS accuses Studentska lista candidate of illegal academic appointment

The SNS has accused Studentska lista candidate Dejan Šoškić of illegal academic appointment, prompting counter-accusations of plagiarism against SNS officials like Siniša Mali.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sns-accuses-studentska-lista-candidate-of-illegal-academic-appointment

### 2026-10-11: Dejan Šoškić faces academic allegations and heated economic debate

Serbian politics face heightened tension as the SNS party alleges academic irregularities regarding Dejan Šoškić, amid a heated televised economic debate between Šoškić and Finance Minister Siniša Mali.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dejan-oki-faces-academic-allegations-and-heated-economic-debate

---
Cite as: Serbian political and academic credential disputes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/serbian-political-and-academic-credential-disputes