Decision Time: Union or Separation? Vojvodina's Future Is Being Discussed in Novi Sad
In the shadow of the Petrovaradin Fortress, reflected in the calm waters of the Danube River, the autonomous region of Vojvodina in northern Serbia is on the verge of a historical impasse. In the colorful streets of the capital Novi Sad, “Unity or separation?” his question is resonating more and more among both political leaders and citizens on the street. Dec. While Vojvodina, with its multinational structure, unique culture and strategic economy, is pushing the boundaries of its autonomous status, the future of relations with Belgrade remains uncertain.
The Search for an Identity in the Shadow of History
Vojvodina has been a region that has attracted attention with its diversity and dynamic structure throughout history. These lands, where communities of different ethnic origins lived together, were home to many civilizations in the Decadence from the Habsburg Empire to Yugoslavia. having gained formal autonomy in 1945, the region lost most of its powers during the Slobodan Milošević era in the 1990s. Although the new status, adopted in 2009, includes the transfer of authority in education, culture and language policies, many Vojvodina politicians argue that this is “symbolic”. Today, the demand for the expansion of the region's autonomy as defined in the Serbian Constitution is turning into calls for “independence” in some quarters.
Political Arena: Federalism or Centralism?
The Alliance of Hungarians of Vojvodina (VMSZ), one of the most powerful parties in Vojvodina, is demanding an increase in the regional government's tax collection and international cooperation powers. “In order to preserve the multilingual, multicultural structure of Vojvodina, it is necessary to strengthen autonomy with concrete steps,” says party leader Istvan Pasztor.
In response, the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) government emphasizes that the “integrity of the country” is a priority. As Prime Minister Ana Brnabić said in a speech in Novi Sad last month, “Vojvodina is an integral part of Serbia. Central planning is necessary for economic development,”the statements drew attention.
However, separatist discourses find limited support in mainstream politics. Political scientist from the University of Novi Sad, Dr. Jelena Petrović said, "Demands for independence are limited to marginalized groups. The main debate is between deepening autonomy and preserving Belgrade's Decrees,” he adds.
Economics: Wealth or Risk?
Vojvodina meets 90% of Serbia's agricultural production and is integrated into European Sundays with its industrial infrastructure. Behind the economic self-management demands of the region lies the desire for a fairer sharing of these resources. Goran Kovačević, President of the Novi Sad Chamber of Commerce, said, “70% of tax revenues go to Belgrade. Controlling investments by the local government can accelerate growth,”he claims.
But opponents point out the economic risks of segregation. Economist Milica Jovanović said, "Vojvodina is dependent on Serbia's energy and transport networks. Independence could even jeopardize access to EU funds,” he warns.
What Are the People Saying?
In street interviews conducted in Novi Sad's main square, Trg Slobode, public opinions are also divided. Retired teacher Ljubica Marković (68) said, “I have also seen Yugoslavia and the war. Peace is only possible together,“ said young entrepreneur Marko Tadić (29), "Autonomy creates opportunities for young people. We will be closer to Europe,” he says.
Ethnic minorities, on the other hand, are cautious. Eva Szabo, an NGO representative of Hungarian origin, said, “If autonomy is expanded, education and cultural rights in the mother tongue are guaranteed. But separation can create new tensions,"he says.
The EU Process and Geopolitical Balances
Serbia's EU membership negotiations also affect these discussions. Brussels counts minority rights and local government reforms among the membership criteria. Dec. Although a diplomat from the European Parliament says that “the Vojvodina model can contribute to Serbia's progress towards the EU,” Belgrade's position on autonomy is not clear.
The Last Word: A Call for Dialogue
Experts in both Novi Sad and Belgrade stress that the solution lies in dialogue. Jurist Prof. Dragan Đukić, “194 of the Constitution. the article regulates Vojvodina's rights. The revision of these articles may be possible with a compromise in the parliament,”he says.
While Vojvodina has attracted attention with its diversity and dynamic structure throughout history, today it is at an important turning point that will determine its future. While the rising debates in Novi Sad, the heart of the region, have led to a sharp division between “unity” and “Decoupling”, the exchange of ideas continues in the local and national political arena.
While the fate of Vojvodina is being shaped by peaceful discussions, the question rising on both sides of the Danube is clear: will the future be built together, or will it be left to the waves of history?
Muhittin ÇİFTÇİ
Ankara, Türkiye ,20.02.2025
This article has been prepared with unbiased observation and interviews based on open sources. Opinions are based on the statements of the parties.
