According to preliminary findings from a survey conducted by Serbia’s National Youth Council (KOMS), nearly 90 percent of young people in Serbia support the ongoing student protests, and an overwhelming 92 percent say they would vote if elections were held this Sunday. Notably, 27 percent of them stated they would cast their vote solely at the urging of the student movement.
The study, which focused on the position and needs of Serbian youth, revealed a sharp rise in political interest among young people—twice as many respondents indicated interest in political developments compared to 2020.
Last year, 72 percent of young respondents expressed readiness to vote. This year’s survey, conducted during April and May, shows that number has jumped to 92 percent, while only 2 percent said they would abstain from voting.
When asked about their views on the student protests, 89.6 percent said they support them, and an even higher 94.5 percent voiced support for the protesters’ demands.
Only 3.1 percent had a “very negative” view of the protests, and fewer than 2 percent said they do not support the demands at all.
The preliminary data also indicate strong support for institutional blockades: 90 percent back university blockades, while 76 percent support high school walkouts.
The government’s response to the student protests was poorly rated by 95 percent of the surveyed youth. Additionally, the number of young people who believe Serbia needs a strong authoritarian leader has dropped from 58 percent last year to just 33 percent now.
The survey was conducted between April 25 and May 5 across Serbia, using an online questionnaire completed by a representative sample of 1,259 individuals aged 15 to 30.
KOMS announced that the full findings will be published on August 12, coinciding with International Youth Day.