In a recent interview with the Beta news agency, a prominent critic of the current government discussed the country’s economic struggles, citing a massive increase in public debt—more than 150% since 2012. The critic claimed that the government has proven to be ineffective in managing the economy, as it relies on further borrowing to cover interest payments, which are projected to exceed two billion euros this year.
The critic also emphasized the collapse of the public sector, pointing out mismanagement and excessive debt. He argued that key positions in the public sector are often filled based on political loyalty rather than merit, leading to widespread corruption. The investments made by the government, according to him, are not grounded in economic value, productivity, or profitability, and future generations will bear the financial consequences of these poor decisions.
He expressed concern over the mass emigration of highly skilled professionals, noting that over half a million young, educated citizens have left the country in the last decade. This, he claimed, has led to a demographic crisis, with an aging population left behind and no future workforce to drive economic and social development. He stated that students are protesting not to change the country, but to demand a change in governance, seeking accountability from those in power.
Regarding Serbia’s economic potential, the critic argued that the country’s only real advantage lies in agriculture. However, even this sector is in decline due to a shrinking population and insufficient government support. He lamented the fact that Serbia, once capable of feeding much of Europe, now relies heavily on food imports.
The government’s policy of selling national assets, including land, to foreign investors was also criticized. The critic contended that such actions contradict the country’s national interests and were done without proper consideration of the long-term consequences. He specifically highlighted the sale of a major agricultural enterprise that had once supported millions of people with food production, questioning why it was sold and calling for accountability for these decisions.
Foreign investment policies were also a point of contention, with the critic arguing that these investments often bring outdated technology, low wages, and minimal responsibility to the country. He pointed out that foreign companies are often given subsidies, yet they harm domestic industries by providing direct competition. In his view, this policy disproportionately benefits foreign investors and worsens conditions for local businesses.
On the issue of living standards, the critic pointed out that most citizens are struggling financially, with many unable to cover basic expenses. He proposed raising the minimum wage while reducing taxes and other mandatory payments, believing this approach would boost consumer purchasing power and address the issue of informal labor.
When it comes to food and fuel prices, the critic suggested that investing in domestic agricultural production could help lower costs. He criticized the government’s subsidy system as flawed and argued that farmers need more support to modernize their operations and increase productivity. He also stressed the need for a healthy program to support agriculture and ensure affordable food for the population.
The critic further stated that improving living conditions in rural areas would be crucial for reviving agricultural production and attracting younger workers back into the sector. He advocated for policies such as lowering VAT and providing subsidies for fuel used in agriculture to help support this process.
Regarding the ongoing student protests, the critic expressed strong support, seeing the protests as a call for positive change in the country. He described the protesters as representing the future of the nation and called for an end to the current bureaucratic system, demanding accountability from those in power.
Looking ahead, the critic proposed forming a government of experts to oversee preparations for democratic elections, to define the country’s future economic and social development plans, and to ensure media freedom. He also called for the prosecution of those responsible for economic mismanagement and for the return of stolen assets to the country. The critic reaffirmed his belief that the future of the nation lies with the youth, who are demanding a better future and greater accountability from the current leadership.
