The distinction between parliamentary and presidential systems lies primarily in the relationship between the executive and legislative branches of government. In a parliamentary system, the executive (the government, led by a prime minister) is drawn from and accountable to the legislature (parliament). The head of state (often a president or monarch) is typically a largely ceremonial figure. Conversely, in a presidential system, the executive (the president) is directly elected by the people and is largely independent of the legislature. The president serves as both head of state and head of government [1].

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Serbia, under the leadership of Aleksandar Vučić, presents a complex case that blurs the lines between a traditional parliamentary and a presidential system. While constitutionally defined as a parliamentary republic, with the Prime Minister and government holding executive power, many analysts argue that Serbia de facto operates more like a presidential system due to the concentration of power in the hands of President Vučić [2] [3].

In a typical parliamentary system, the government is formed by the political party or coalition that commands a majority in parliament. The Prime Minister, as the head of government, is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country and is accountable to the parliament through votes of confidence [4]. The head of state, such as a president, usually performs ceremonial duties, represents the nation, and ensures the smooth functioning of democratic processes, but holds limited executive power [5]. For instance, Article 4 of the Law on the Government of Serbia states that "The Government represents the Republic of Serbia as a legal entity and in doing so exercises the rights and obligations that the Republic of Serbia has as the founder of public enterprises, institutions and other organizations, unless otherwise provided by law" [2]. This legal framework outlines the government's executive responsibilities.

However, in Serbia, despite the constitutional framework, President Vučić, who previously served as Prime Minister, has increasingly taken on roles traditionally associated with the head of government. He acts as the chief negotiator for the Brussels Dialogue, receives foreign dignitaries, travels abroad for state visits, and engages in economic negotiations with international partners like China, Russia, and Turkey. He also participates in the opening of infrastructure projects and factories, activities typically performed by ministers or the prime minister [2]. This active involvement in executive functions, coupled with his continued leadership of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), even after becoming president, has led to a significant shift of power from the prime ministerial to the presidential position [2] [6]. Critics argue that this concentration of power in the presidency, without corresponding constitutional and legal changes, resembles a "Russian model" where political power is tied to the individual politician rather than the office they hold [2].

The Serbian Constitution limits the president to two five-year terms [7]. Aleksandar Vučić was first elected president in 2017, winning 55% of the votes, and was re-elected in 2022 with approximately 58% of the votes in the first round [8] [9]. This means his current term is set to expire in 2027. The question of his potential candidacy for a third term or a shift back to the prime ministerial role has been a subject of considerable political discussion [3]. Such changes would require constitutional amendments, which currently lack the necessary two-thirds majority in the National Assembly [3].

The political landscape in Serbia is further complicated by the dominant position of the SNS, which, despite losing its absolute majority in the National Assembly in the 2022 parliamentary elections, remains the strongest political force [8]. The opposition has often faced challenges in media access and fair electoral conditions, leading to boycotts of past elections [8] [10]. The 2022 general elections, which included both presidential and parliamentary votes, saw a polarized campaign, with reports of irregularities and an uneven playing field favoring the incumbent authorities [8].

The ongoing debate about the nature of Serbia's political system highlights the tension between its formal parliamentary structure and the informal, centralized power exercised by the presidency. This situation raises questions about democratic accountability and the balance of power within the government [2] [3].

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