Aleksandar Weisner, an international expert on peace, conflict, and negotiation, has sharply criticized Serbia’s current leadership, arguing that the country is facing systemic institutional decline, expanding corruption, and increasing authoritarian governance.
In an opinion piece published on February 4, Weisner claims that Serbia has never been weakened as systematically in peacetime as it is under the current government led by President Aleksandar Vučić.
Warning of Growing Criminal Influence Over the State
Weisner warned that unless political change occurs within the coming months, Serbia could become a country governed primarily by criminal interests.
“If criminals control the state, there is significantly less justice, meaning, and life than even in single-party dictatorships,” Weisner wrote.
He also argued that the question of when elections will take place is less important than whether elections will remain meaningful, suggesting that institutional weakening could undermine democratic processes.
Claims of Expanding Autocracy and Institutional Decline
According to Weisner, the Serbian government’s recent policies demonstrate four main trends:
- Strengthening of autocratic governance
- Acceleration of state asset privatization
- Increasing repression of critical voices
- Centralized crisis management and political control
He further claimed that professionals in sectors such as education, healthcare, security, public enterprises, science, judiciary, and culture are allegedly being marginalized if they prioritize professional integrity over political loyalty.
Economic and Corruption Concerns
Weisner cited estimates suggesting that:
- Every fifth public procurement transaction is allegedly misused or illegally spent
- Serbia’s budget reportedly loses more than €1 billion annually due to corruption in public enterprises
- Approximately $6 billion circulates within the grey economy
He argued that even a small portion of these funds could significantly improve Serbia’s education system and public services.
Privatization and Legislative Criticism
The expert accused Serbian authorities of using legislative changes to legalize privatization of key national assets, including public enterprises, natural resources, and infrastructure. He alleged that some strategic companies have been restructured in ways that could allow transfer of ownership to private investors.
Social and Demographic Challenges
Weisner also highlighted broader social concerns, claiming that Serbia is experiencing:
- Declining birth rates and population reduction
- Public health and environmental challenges
- Infrastructure and transportation deterioration
Political Tensions and Protest Movements
The commentary noted that student and civic protest movements are gaining momentum, while predicting that early elections are unlikely unless political conditions change significantly.
Weisner suggested that the government may attempt to consolidate power through parallel or informal political structures, raising concerns about the future strength of democratic institutions.
Growing Confrontation Between Citizens and Authorities
He concluded that the current situation represents a widening political and social divide between Serbian citizens and governing authorities, warning that public protests reflect growing dissatisfaction with governance and institutional performance.
