PUBLICATION: Policy paper
Anti-system Extremism in Serbia: The Synergy of Marginal Groups and the Ruling Part
Anti-system extremism in Serbia represents one of the most serious threats to the democratic order, social stability, and security. Unlike the broader European context, this phenomenon in Serbia operates simultaneously “from below” – through far-right and anti-system actors on the social margins – and “from above”, through narratives, practices, and informal structures connected to the ruling political elite.
Digital platforms, and Telegram in particular, play a central role in this process, functioning as infrastructure for the dissemination of nationalist, pro-Russian, and anti-democratic messaging. In addition, Telegram serves as a tool for the rapid mobilisation of highly engaged communities during political crises, elections, and protests. When similar anti-system narratives are adopted or legitimised by centres of political power, they become normalised, further encouraging radicalisation and the potential for violence.
This report argues that anti-system extremism in Serbia constitutes a hybrid phenomenon and offers recommendations for its prevention, strengthening public trust in institutions, and protecting democratic rights in the digital space.
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