Serbia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Serbia, state of the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe; 77 474 km², 7 million residents (2019), excluding Kosovo (10 887 km², 1.8 million residents).Serbia borders in the north to Hungary, in the east to Romania, in the south to Northern Macedonia and Albania and in the west to Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. The capital is Belgrade (1.2 million residents, 2012).

The country was formerly part of Yugoslavia. When Yugoslavia disbanded in 1992, Serbia became one of two parties to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, which in 2003 changed to a looser association: the Union of Serbia and Montenegro. On June 5, 2006, two days after Montenegro’s declaration of independence, Serbia was also declared an independent state. On February 17, 2008, the disintegration continued as Kosovo unilaterally proclaimed itself an independent state.

Country facts

Srbija / Republic of Serbia
Country abbreviation: RS
Area: 77 474 km²
Population (2019): 7 million residents
Capital: Belgrade
Main language: Serbian
State: Republic
Head of State: Aleksandar Vučić (President)
Head of Government: Ana Brnabić
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 5,348
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 6,390
Currency unit: dinar
Currency code: RSD
Country number (telephony): 381
Internet Domain Name: Rs
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: February 15 (the first Serbian constitution, 1835)

Nature

Land use: forest (21%), agricultural land (53%), other (26%)
Highest mountain: Midžor (2,169 m above sea level)
Longest river: Danube (588 km, in Serbia)

Population

Population density (2019): 90 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): −0.6%; birth rate 9 ‰, death rate 15 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (14%), 15-64 (76%), 65- (20%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 73 years, women 78 years
Infant mortality (2019): 5 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 6 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.787 (place 67 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 60%
Most populous cities (2012): Belgrade (1.2 million residents), Novi Sad (231,800) and Niš (183,200)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (10%), industry (41%), service (49%)
Exports (2017): US $ 15 920 million
Main export products: iron, steel, rubber
Main exporting countries: Italy, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Imports (2017): US $ 20,440 million
Main import products: Machinery and transport equipment, fuel
Main importing countries: Germany, Italy, China
Railway network (2015): 3,800 km

Geography of Serbia

Location and Size

Serbia is a landlocked country located in Southeast Europe, in the central and western part of the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with Hungary to the north, Romania to the northeast, Bulgaria to the southeast, North Macedonia to the south, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, and Montenegro to the southwest. Serbia has a total area of 77,474 square kilometers (29,913 square miles), making it a medium-sized country in the region.

The country’s location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe has played a significant role in its history, contributing to its diverse cultural influences. The capital and largest city of Serbia is Belgrade, situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Serbia is strategically important due to its proximity to both the European Union and countries in the Middle East, giving it a central position in European geopolitics.

Topography and Natural Features

Serbia’s landscape is diverse, characterized by fertile plains, river valleys, rolling hills, and mountain ranges. The northern part of the country is part of the Pannonian Plain, which is flat and suitable for agriculture, particularly crops such as corn, wheat, and barley. The central and southern parts of Serbia are more mountainous, with the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges providing natural barriers. The highest peak in Serbia is Midžor, which stands at 2,169 meters (7,146 feet) on the border with Bulgaria.

Rivers play an important role in Serbia’s geography. The Danube River, which flows through the northern part of the country, is the second-longest river in Europe and provides Serbia with a vital transportation route. Other significant rivers in the country include the Sava, Morava, and Drina rivers. These waterways have historically served as trade routes, linking Serbia to neighboring regions and beyond.

Serbia is also home to several national parks, such as Tara National Park in the west, known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, and Đerdap National Park in the east, which is located along the Danube River and contains the Iron Gates Gorge. These areas contribute to Serbia’s rich biodiversity and provide opportunities for eco-tourism.

Climate of Serbia

Continental Climate

Serbia experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The climate varies slightly between the northern plains and the mountainous regions, but in general, the country has distinct seasonal changes. Summers in Serbia are typically hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) in July and August. The southern parts of the country tend to experience higher temperatures compared to the northern areas.

In contrast, winters can be quite cold, especially in the interior and higher altitudes. Temperatures in winter can drop below freezing, with average January temperatures ranging from -1°C (30°F) in the plains to -5°C (23°F) in the mountains. Snow is common during the winter months, particularly in the mountainous regions, where it can accumulate significantly. This snowfall supports winter sports activities, particularly in areas like Kopaonik, Serbia’s largest ski resort.

The spring and autumn months are transitional, with moderate temperatures and rainfall. The spring season sees the arrival of new plant growth and blooming flowers, while the autumn brings vibrant foliage as the leaves change color. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, although the heaviest rainfall tends to occur in the spring and autumn.

Precipitation and Winds

Serbia’s precipitation patterns are influenced by its continental climate, with regions located near mountains and rivers receiving more rainfall than the flat plains. The western and southern parts of Serbia, which are closer to the mountains, tend to have more precipitation, while the northern plains are drier, experiencing less rainfall overall.

The country is also subject to the influence of various wind patterns. The “košava” is a strong, cold wind that blows from the northeast, often causing significant drops in temperature, especially in the winter months. It is known for its high wind speeds and can sometimes cause severe weather conditions. The winds that blow from the Danube River and the Mediterranean also affect Serbia’s weather, bringing changes in temperature and humidity.

People of Serbia

Population and Demographics

Serbia has a population of approximately 7 million people, making it one of the more populous countries in the Balkans. The majority of the population is ethnically Serbian, with smaller ethnic groups such as Hungarians, Bosniaks, Croats, and Romani people. Ethnic Albanians also constitute a significant minority, particularly in the southern region of Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, although Serbia does not recognize Kosovo’s independence.

The population of Serbia is relatively young, with a median age of about 42 years. However, like many European countries, Serbia faces demographic challenges such as low birth rates and an aging population. This is compounded by emigration, with many young Serbs seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in European Union countries, due to economic conditions and better job prospects.

Serbia’s population is mostly urbanized, with approximately 55% of the population living in urban areas. Belgrade, the capital, is the largest city, home to over 1.2 million people, making it the cultural, political, and economic center of the country. Other major cities include Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac.

Language and Religion

The official language of Serbia is Serbian, a South Slavic language written in both Cyrillic and Latin scripts, though the Cyrillic script is more commonly used in official documents and publications. Serbian is spoken by the vast majority of the population, and it is used in government, education, and media. There are also minority languages spoken in Serbia, such as Hungarian, Romanian, and Albanian, which are used by ethnic groups in specific regions.

The predominant religion in Serbia is Eastern Orthodox Christianity, with about 85% of the population identifying as members of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The church plays an important role in both the spiritual and cultural life of Serbia. The Serbian Orthodox Church has a long history, and its monasteries and churches are significant cultural landmarks throughout the country. Religious festivals, particularly those associated with Christianity, such as Christmas and Easter, are widely celebrated.

There are also small communities of Muslims, primarily among the Bosniak and Albanian populations, as well as Catholic Christians, particularly among the ethnic Croat population. Serbia is known for its religious tolerance, although tensions have occasionally arisen due to regional conflicts and historical grievances.

Education and Health

Serbia has a well-established education system, with compulsory education for children aged 7 to 15. The education system follows a three-tier model, with primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary and secondary education is free and largely government-funded. Higher education institutions in Serbia include the University of Belgrade, which is the largest and oldest university in the country, along with other universities in Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac.

The literacy rate in Serbia is high, at around 98%, reflecting the country’s emphasis on education. In recent years, there has been a focus on improving education standards, with reforms aimed at enhancing the quality of education, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Healthcare in Serbia is provided by a mix of public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government through mandatory health insurance. While healthcare services are generally accessible, the system faces challenges such as overcrowding, outdated equipment, and limited funding. In recent years, Serbia has undertaken efforts to modernize its healthcare infrastructure and improve medical services.

Economy of Serbia

Key Industries

The economy of Serbia is diverse, with significant contributions from industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, services, and energy. The country has a well-developed industrial sector, particularly in the fields of automotive manufacturing, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. Serbia is a major exporter of machinery, equipment, and automobiles, with companies such as Fiat and the domestic company Yugo contributing to the country’s industrial output.

Agriculture also plays an important role in the Serbian economy, with the country being one of Europe’s leading producers of agricultural products such as wheat, corn, sunflower seeds, and tobacco. Serbia’s fertile plains, particularly in the Vojvodina region, are key to the country’s agricultural production, and the government has supported modernizing the agricultural sector through investments in infrastructure, irrigation, and technology.

The services sector, including retail, finance, telecommunications, and tourism, has grown rapidly in recent years. Serbia’s tourism industry has seen a boom, with visitors coming to the country for its historical sites, vibrant cultural scene, and natural beauty. Tourism in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and the Tara National Park area is a significant contributor to the economy.

Economic Challenges

Despite Serbia’s diverse economy, the country faces a number of challenges. One of the biggest issues is the unemployment rate, which remains high, especially among young people. While economic reforms have spurred growth in certain sectors, structural unemployment continues to be a concern, particularly in rural areas.

Another challenge is the country’s dependence on energy imports, especially in the form of oil and natural gas, which it imports primarily from Russia. Serbia has sought to improve its energy independence by investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

In addition, Serbia’s economy remains vulnerable to regional political instability, particularly concerning Kosovo’s independence, which has strained relations with some neighboring countries and international organizations.

Government of Serbia

Political System

Serbia is a parliamentary republic with a multi-party political system. The head of state is the president, who is elected every five years by direct popular vote. The president holds a largely ceremonial role but has significant influence over foreign policy and national security. The head of government is the prime minister, who is appointed by the president and is responsible for running the day-to-day affairs of the government.

The legislative body of Serbia is the National Assembly, which consists of 250 members elected for a four-year term. The National Assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch. Serbia has a multi-party system, with several political parties representing various ideological positions. The ruling parties in Serbia are typically aligned with pro-European Union policies, although there are also nationalist and conservative factions within the country.

Serbia’s political system has undergone significant reforms since the breakup of Yugoslavia and its transition from a socialist system to a market-oriented democracy. The country continues to work on improving its democratic institutions and aligning its policies with European standards, as it seeks to join the European Union.

Legal System

The legal system of Serbia is based on civil law principles, with significant influence from European Union law, as the country aspires to become an EU member. The judiciary is independent, and Serbia has a multi-tiered court system, including the Supreme Court of Cassation, which serves as the highest court in the country. Serbia’s legal system also includes specialized courts that handle matters such as commercial law, administrative law, and family law.

The country has made significant strides in reforming its legal system in recent years, with a focus on reducing corruption, improving the efficiency of courts, and ensuring the protection of human rights. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including the need for greater judicial independence and transparency in legal proceedings.

Culture of Serbia

Arts and Music

Serbia has a rich cultural heritage shaped by its long history, diverse ethnic groups, and complex political environment. Serbian music is a prominent aspect of the country’s cultural identity, with traditional folk music, classical music, and modern genres like pop and rock being popular. The country is known for its contributions to classical music, with composers such as Stevan Stanojlovic and Josip Slavenski gaining international recognition.

Serbia’s visual arts scene includes painting, sculpture, and architecture, with famous artists like Paja Jovanović and Uroš Predić creating works that reflect the country’s national identity and history. Serbian art is deeply influenced by both Eastern Orthodox religious themes and Western artistic traditions.

Festivals and Traditions

Serbia’s cultural calendar is marked by a variety of religious and national celebrations. Orthodox Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, are widely observed, with family gatherings and religious services playing a central role. National holidays, including Statehood Day and the Day of the Serbian Uprising, commemorate significant historical events in the country’s history.

Serbia is also known for its vibrant festivals, including the EXIT Festival in Novi Sad, one of the largest music festivals in Southeast Europe, and the Belgrade Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world. Traditional events, such as the Guča Trumpet Festival, celebrate the country’s folk music and bring together thousands of visitors every year.

Cuisine

Serbian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s rich cultural history, combining influences from Mediterranean, Turkish, and Central European cuisines. The most common ingredients in Serbian cooking include meats, vegetables, dairy, and bread. One of the most popular dishes is ćevapi, grilled minced meat served with flatbread and onions. Other staples include sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls), ajvar (roasted pepper spread), and gibanica (a layered pastry with cheese and eggs).

Serbian meals are typically hearty and often feature grilled meats, soups, and stews. Bread, especially pita, is a staple at every meal. Serbian cuisine also includes a wide variety of desserts, including baklava, crepes, and the popular Serbian plum brandy, rakija, which is traditionally homemade and served as a symbol of hospitality.

History of Serbia

Early History and Medieval Period

The history of Serbia dates back to the early Slavic migrations into the Balkans, with the formation of medieval Serbian kingdoms in the 9th century. The Serbian state became powerful during the reign of the Nemanjić dynasty in the 12th and 13th centuries, which established the Kingdom of Serbia and later the Serbian Empire under Emperor Stefan Dušan in the 14th century.

During this period, Serbia flourished both politically and culturally, with significant achievements in art, architecture, and education. However, the empire began to decline in the 15th century, largely due to the Ottoman invasions.

Ottoman Rule and National Revival

For nearly four centuries, from the 16th to the 19th century, much of Serbia was under Ottoman rule. During this period, the Serbian population faced heavy taxation, forced conversion to Islam, and the suppression of their cultural and political institutions. However, Serbian identity and resistance to Ottoman rule persisted, particularly through the establishment of autonomous regions within the empire.

The Serbian Revolution in the early 19th century led to the eventual independence of Serbia in 1830, marking the beginning of the modern Serbian state. Serbia continued to grow in power during the 19th and early 20th centuries, eventually gaining full independence in the 1878 Treaty of Berlin.

The 20th Century and Yugoslavia

In the 20th century, Serbia was a founding member of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, which was established after World War I. After the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Serbia went through a period of political and economic turmoil, including wars in Bosnia, Croatia, and Kosovo. The wars of the 1990s, combined with international sanctions, led to significant suffering for the population.

Serbia emerged from these conflicts in the early 2000s and began transitioning toward a more democratic society. The country faces ongoing challenges related to its relationship with Kosovo, which declared independence in 2008 but is not recognized by Serbia.

Today, Serbia is a candidate for membership in the European Union and continues to navigate its path toward modernization, economic development, and regional cooperation.