Serbia's ruling coalition rushed four electoral law amendments through parliament this week in a move opposition groups and civil society monitors warn could enable vote manipulation in upcoming elections.
The changes, introduced by Serbian Progressive Party MP Miroslav Petrašinović through parliamentary initiative and passed via urgent procedure, came just days before voters head to the polls. The timing and substance of the amendments have sparked immediate criticism from opposition parties and election watchdogs.
The most controversial provision allows a single voter to sign support petitions for multiple electoral lists, a departure from previous rules that required exclusive support. Petrašinović defended the change as implementing recommendations from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), claiming it would "respect what ODIHR recommended regarding pluralism expansion."
However, opposition figure Aleksandar Ivanović from the New Party of Serbia dismissed the session as "resembling a farce" and accused authorities of attempting "to restore international trust" through selective procedural reforms rather than substantive democratic improvements.
The amendments also significantly expand the Republic Election Commission's powers, granting it authority to unilaterally review and annul decisions made by local election commissions, as well as overturn official records and complaints. This centralization of electoral authority in Belgrade has raised concerns about the independence of local election administration.
Additional provisions mandate training and certification for all polling station officials, with credentials valid for three years. Officials would lose certification if convicted of election-related crimes or if elections are repeated at their polling location. While proponents argue this professionalizes election administration, critics note the timing prevents proper implementation before the current vote.
The rushed passage without broader public consultation represents a pattern familiar across the , where last-minute electoral rule changes have repeatedly undermined international monitoring standards. The OSCE and European Union have consistently emphasized that to ensure transparency and build public confidence.
