Serbia has entered a new political era. In a stunning electoral upset, the student-led movement has defeated Aleksandar Vučić’s ruling party, bringing an end to 14 years of political dominance.

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With nearly 53% of the vote and turnout approaching 70%, the Student List has secured a decisive parliamentary majority. But after years of protests against corruption, state capture and authoritarianism, the biggest challenge may still lie ahead: turning a protest movement into a functioning government.

In this special Talk Eastern Europe Quick Take, Alexandra Karppi is joined by Nikola Burazer, Programme Director at the Centre for Contemporary Politics, for an immediate reaction to Serbia’s historic parliamentary election results. They discuss how the students achieved such an extraordinary victory, why Vučić conceded defeat, what lies ahead for his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), and whether the new government can deliver on its promises to restore democratic institutions and the rule of law.

They also examine what Serbia’s political transformation could mean for the Western Balkans, the country's European future, and its relations with Russia and Kosovo.

Is this simply the end of an era, or the beginning of a democratic transformation that could inspire the entire region?