In a biting opinion piece for the satirical outlet Njuz.net, Nenad Milosavljević explores the sudden shift in anxiety among Serbia’s ruling elite following the unexpected political downfall of Viktor Orbán in Hungary. For years, Serbian officials reportedly feared “revolutionary” endings—citing the uprisings in Nepal, Ukraine, or Romania—but they never anticipated that Orbán, a key ally and fellow “strongman,” could be unseated through a standard democratic process.
Milosavljević notes that the “Hungarian Scenario” has become a living nightmare for the Belgrade administration precisely because it proved that a populist, autocratic regime could be defeated at the ballot box. The author mocks the reaction of pro-government media figures like Dragan J. Vučićević, who initially reported a landslide victory for Orbán based on a fraction of the vote, only to fall into a state of “passive-aggressive lamentation” once the official results confirmed Péter Magyar’s victory.
From Global “Leaders” to Election Losers
The article highlights the irony of the Serbian government’s alignment with global figures like Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orbán. Milosavljević suggests that the fall of Orbán disrupts the narrative of the “invincible leader.” He also touches upon the unpredictable relationship with Donald Trump, noting the confusion within Serbian leadership regarding whether the U.S. President is a true ally or an unreliable partner who “snubs” local leaders after receiving symbolic gifts.
The author describes the somber atmosphere at pro-government media headquarters following the Hungarian results, comparing the mood to a “funeral” rather than a celebration of the Easter holiday.
The Looming “Serbian Scenario”
However, Milosavljević argues that there is something even more terrifying for the current Serbian authorities than the Hungarian example: the “Serbian Scenario.”
While the Hungarian model involves losing power through legal and democratic means, the Serbian version adds a layer of accountability.
According to the author, the true fear for those currently in power is not just moving to the opposition benches, but the prospect of being held legally responsible for their actions over the past decade. He concludes that while the Hungarian loss was a shock, the necessity of facing justice after a potential electoral defeat in Serbia is what truly keeps the ruling class awake at night.
