Serbia Country Report
Serbia is a stable democratic republic in Eastern Europe. This country is located in the southern part of the Pannonian plain in the central Balkan peninsula and at the intersection of central and southeastern Europe. A former founding member of Yugoslavia, the country has become an independent democratic republic since the dissolution of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro in 2006. It is relatively developed and has long-term ambitions to join the European Union, but adheres to a policy of military neutrality.
Civil conflicts have erupted sporadically, and tensions with Kosovo pose a limited threat of conflict, given NATO’s presence in the region. Foreigners in Serbia do not face a significant terrorist threat, and most terrorist activities are related to supporting conspiracies abroad. Crime is one of the main threats to visitors. While petty thefts such as pickpocketing are a threat in airports and public transport, serious crimes such as car theft and robbery are also frequently reported. Violent crime is often associated with organized crime groups, which can pose a threat to unsuspecting observers.
Although there are no significant risks associated with air travel to the country, unsafe local driving habits and poor road conditions can make road travel in Serbia dangerous. Health care is varied, and although doctors in Serbia are well-trained, hospitals and clinics may lack equipment and supplies. Serbia is located in an active seismic zone, which makes it prone to earthquakes. Forest fires, landslides, and floods are also frequent in this country. Unexploded mines and other ammunition are often found in the border areas of the country.
Last updated: April 12, 2022
Security
Over the past decade, Serbia has improved its relations with its neighbors, most of whom are NATO members or candidates for membership, reducing the risk of renewed regional conflicts. However, political events in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina could spark local violence along ethnic lines in Serbia. Opportunistic crimes against tourists such as pickpocketing and pickpocketing are common, and organized crime sometimes targets foreign tourists. Most of the demonstrations in Belgrade and other major cities are usually peaceful, but in some cases, demonstrators have resorted to violence.
Last updated: May 12, 2022
Infrastructure
There are no safety concerns when traveling by air in Serbia.
Road accidents are often caused by bad local driving habits and poor vehicle maintenance.
The port of Belgrade is considered efficient.
Access to public facilities is good in big cities, but services may be inadequate in rural areas. There is a huge difference in the cost of internet access between urban and rural areas.
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks that could damage the country’s economy.
Last updated: February 8, 2023
Environment
Continued heavy rains can cause massive flooding in Serbia. Floods and landslides can damage property and block roads. Although Serbia is located in a seismic zone, most earthquakes are of mild to moderate intensity and cause minimal damage and casualties. There is a significant risk of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and mines.
Last updated: March 3, 2022
Health and Medical
Medical facilities are limited and not up to Western standards. Hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for medical services. Most essential supplies are available in pharmacies. However, the drug may have an unfamiliar name.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Serbia is a parliamentary democracy, but concerns about democratic backsliding have negatively affected the current government. After the April 2022 general election, the ruling Progressive Party of Serbia (SNS) formed a coalition with the Socialist Party (SPS) and elected Aleksandar Vučić as president, despite concerns about growing discontent with him and the SNS. There is no strong opposition to the SNS, and concerns about civil war are growing as public trust declines.
Last updated: February 8, 2023
