Expect the Unexpected in the Balkans, says Economist

In an electoral surprise, Serbia’s pro-European coalition, led by President Boris Tadic, made significant gains in yesterday’s parliamentary election. The coalition received 39% of the vote, a better than expected outcome. President Tadic and his parliamentary allies hope to keep Serbia on the path to eventual EU membership, a policy which is anathema to the Radicals and their strongly nationalist supporters. The Radicals garnered 29% of the vote, still a decent outcome but less than expected. In the Economist’s analysis, recent positive developments for Serbia’s EU hopes may have convinced many Radical supporters to stay home, allowing President Tadic reap the electoral benefits. Click here for in-depth analysis.