Serbia

Serbia is bracing for early parliamentary and presidential elections, expected to be called within the next 15 to 25 days by President Aleksandar Vučić. This announcement is set against a backdrop of political realignment, as Ivica Dačić, leader of the Socialist Party of Serbia (SPS), declared his party's decision to contest the upcoming elections independently, signaling a potential fracturing of the long-standing coalition with the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS).

The political climate is further charged by escalating concerns over the rule of law and judicial independence. Prosecutor Vukašin Vujičić in Valjevo, who is pursuing a case against a group with alleged ties to the ruling party, has announced plans to move his family due to safety threats following the torching of his car. This incident is being linked to broader patterns of political violence and pressure on the judiciary. Meanwhile, the country continues to grapple with widespread wildfires, particularly in Deliblatska Peščara and Stolovi, and a severe water crisis affecting residents in parts of Belgrade.

Amidst these challenges, the government has introduced a positive measure by adding 18 new medicines to the list of those with state-covered costs, aiming to improve public access to essential medications. Economically, concerns persist regarding rising energy costs and property prices, while debates continue on the impact of political influence on institutions like the University of Belgrade's international ranking.