Serbian Group: OSCE Report Ignored President's Active Role in Local Election Campaigns

The Bureau for Social Research (Birodi) in Serbia has criticized the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) for allegedly omitting crucial details in its latest election report. Birodi contends that the ODIHR report overlooked President Aleksandar Vučić's active involvement in local election campaigns during 2025 and 2026, despite his position as president.

While the ODIHR report acknowledges Vučić's "central role in the country's political life," Birodi argues it failed to highlight his actions in the context of the ODIHR's own 2024 recommendation for a clear separation between the state and political parties. Birodi asserts that Vučić's participation, including appearing on the Serbian Progressive Party's (SNS) electoral list and speaking at campaign rallies while identified as president, violates the Constitution, the Law on Prevention of Corruption, and the ODIHR's primary recommendation.

Furthermore, Birodi expressed concern that the ODIHR report does not address Vučić's actions as president in the context of upcoming elections where he is expected to run for prime minister. This, they argue, will influence the electoral results for the SNS and his chances of becoming prime minister. Birodi also noted its exclusion from meetings with the ODIHR Mission, despite media reports labeling Birodi as receiving funds to provide reports to ODIHR.