How did the student list reach the Central Election Commission?
Serbian law requires any party, coalition or citizens' group to collect at least 10,000 verified signatures of adult citizens before it can appear on the ballot. The student group met this threshold and delivered the signatures in person on the afternoon of 14 September 2026. The march began symbolically in front of the University of Belgrade rectorate and drew thousands of supporters who chanted 'Victory, victory'. The delivery was made to the Central Election Commission after the procession through Belgrade. Thousands of citizens had signed in support of the list named 'Student List – Students Win'.
Who are the 250 candidates on the student list?
The list, formally titled 'Student List – Students Win', is composed entirely of individuals with no prior party or political activity. Former basketball player Dejan Bodiroga is among the candidates. The names were chosen to represent the wider protest movement rather than any established political structure. The list was presented as a single student list containing exactly 250 candidates for the National Assembly. From 15 September the group will begin its official campaign and publish a detailed programme for governing the country.
What triggered the student protests that led to this list?
Protests began after the 1 November 2024 collapse of the renovated canopy at Novi Sad railway station, which killed 16 people. Demonstrators accused authorities of corruption, lack of transparency, clientelism and authoritarian practices. Students have led the movement for nearly two years, organising repeated rallies across Serbia. The 25 October 2026 vote will be the twelfth parliamentary election since the introduction of the multi-party system in 1990. The mobilisations followed the tragedy at the Novi Sad station and focused on demands for accountability.
Which other parties have already filed lists?
The ruling Serbian Progressive Party submitted its list on 13 September, headed by Aleksandar Vučić, who is expected to resign soon as president. The Socialist Party of Serbia also filed its list. These filings occur ahead of the formal start of the campaign period. The student filing took place the following day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the legal minimum for a citizens' list in Serbia?
Serbian election law requires 10,000 verified signatures from adult citizens before a citizens' group can contest parliamentary elections.
When are the next Serbian parliamentary elections?
The elections are scheduled for 25 October 2026.
How many candidates appear on the student list?
The list contains 250 non-partisan candidates.
Why did students begin protesting in 2024?
The protests followed the collapse of the Novi Sad station canopy on 1 November 2024, which killed 16 people and prompted accusations of corruption and negligence.
Who is Dejan Bodiroga?
Dejan Bodiroga is a former professional basketball player included among the 250 candidates on the student list.
