Update
Election day observation report – local elections 2026
Introductory note CRTA deployed 10 limited-capacity observation missions, applying a methodology gro...
The election day in 10 local self-government units deserved ratings ranging from very poor to poor. Due to the intensity of violence, primarily in Bor, but also in Kula and Bajina Bašta, serious problems recorded in municipalities where the situation was relatively calm remained in the background — this is CRTA’s conclusion after its 10 observation missions, operating in limited capacity, monitored developments in all locations where citizens went to the polls.
Observers reported across all areas the keeping of parallel voter records, cases of compromised ballot secrecy, and organized transportation of voters, indicating possible voting under pressure. However, in light of beatings, the use of weapons, and the spread of fear, these electoral shortcomings appear unjustifiably “less” serious.
Particularly concerning is the fact that the police were largely unprepared to protect citizens exposed to violence or to detain perpetrators. It is also alarming that among those involved in violence and other illicit activities, observers and citizens identified employees of public institutions and enterprises from various cities across Serbia. At a broader level, what was observed shows how the system is being used against both voting rights and the basic security of its own citizens.
The concentration of police forces toward the end of election day raises concerns that violence could escalate even after polling stations close. Election day confirmed, in a crude manner, what had already been observed during the campaign period — extreme inequality among electoral participants, the criminalization of institutions, the severe abuse of public resources and functions, and a deeply entrenched network of clientelism whose effects are most visible during elections.
In short, this can hardly be called an election.
Observers reported across all areas the keeping of parallel voter records, cases of compromised ballot secrecy, and organized transportation of voters, indicating possible voting under pressure. However, in light of beatings, the use of weapons, and the spread of fear, these electoral shortcomings appear unjustifiably “less” serious.
Particularly concerning is the fact that the police were largely unprepared to protect citizens exposed to violence or to detain perpetrators. It is also alarming that among those involved in violence and other illicit activities, observers and citizens identified employees of public institutions and enterprises from various cities across Serbia. At a broader level, what was observed shows how the system is being used against both voting rights and the basic security of its own citizens.
The concentration of police forces toward the end of election day raises concerns that violence could escalate even after polling stations close. Election day confirmed, in a crude manner, what had already been observed during the campaign period — extreme inequality among electoral participants, the criminalization of institutions, the severe abuse of public resources and functions, and a deeply entrenched network of clientelism whose effects are most visible during elections.
In short, this can hardly be called an election.
