Suryaa International Desk: The general election polling process ended in the most tense atmosphere in the Eastern European country of Serbia. For a long time, the country... The general election polling process ended in the most tense atmosphere in the Eastern European country of Serbia. The opposition and university students have taken the election seriously, aiming to undermine the influence of incumbent President Aleksandar Vučić, who has long dominated the country's politics. A major highlight of this election was the large scale youth movement against rising unemployment, systemic corruption and curtailment of democratic rights in the country.
Over the past few months, students have held massive demonstrations in Serbia's capital, Belgrade, as well as in other major cities. The youth, who took to the streets and protested against the policies of the government, strongly aspired for political change in the country. While the pro-Aleksandar Vucic factions relied on the traditional vote bank to stand in the election ring, a coalition of intellectuals and youth seeking change put up a fierce contest. In this background, there was a huge influx of voters at the polling centers and there was political tension across the country. The country is divided between President Vucic's foreign policies, particularly his efforts for membership in the European Union, and his continued cordial relations with Russia.
Factors such as slowing economic reforms and restrictions on civil liberties have had a profound effect on the electorate. After the polling is over, the counting of votes will begin soon. International political analysts predict that the results of these elections will determine the future of Serbia and lead to important developments in the European political arena.