The Image of Israel in Serbia: Perception and Reality

The perception of Israel in Serbia is a complex and multifaceted issue, shaped by historical events, political alliances, and stereotypical views. In this article, we explore the current understanding of Israel among everyday Serbian citizens and the official position of Serbia towards the Jewish state.

Overview of the Image in Serbia

There is no particular, widely understood image of Israel among the general public in Serbia. When Serbs think of Israel, they often associate it with conflict in Palestine, but this perception doesn't necessarily contribute to a positive or negative image. The overall image of Israel in Serbia is described as 'grey,' and it has worsened since the recognition of Kosovo. This section delves into the various aspects that contribute to this flattened perception.

Government and Public Perception

While the Serbian government supports Israel, the general population's sentiment is more nuanced. For ordinary Serbs, Israel is perceived as a state that may be over-politicized, characterized as a 'GMO state' or a 'wannabe western puppet country' that relies heavily on U.S. support. This view can often lead to a bias towards Palestine, despite the religious differences between the two groups. The recognition of Kosovo by Israel has further complicated the relationship.

Historical Ties and Shared Fates

Despite the complex relationship, there are historical ties that connect Serbia and Israel. Both nations have suffered at the hands of fascist and Nazi regimes during World War II. Serbia recognizes this commonality and shows respect towards the resilience of the Jewish people. The Serbian government was among the first to accept the Balfour Declaration, making a significant diplomatic move. This historical perspective fosters a sense of empathy and mutual understanding.

Neo-Nazism and Anti-Semitic Factors

Contemporary Serbian society has not been immune to the resurgence of neo-Nazism, a phenomenon that unfortunately intersects with anti-Semitic sentiments. While anti-Semitism is not a widespread issue in Serbia, it does exist, particularly when compared to other countries such as Germany, where Serbian communities are still viewed as targets by neo-Nazi groups. Serbs and Jews have a shared history of suffering, exemplified by the horrors of the Holocaust. This shared experience often leads to mutual support and respect.

Political and Cultural Influence

The recent historical actions of Serbia and Israel, such as not recognizing Kosovo and not supporting NATO bombing of Yugoslavia, have strengthened the relationship between the two nations. Israel's moral support during the 1999 NATO aggression towards Serbia is one of the reasons why Serbia appreciates Israel. Even though Serbia and the U.S. are political allies, Israel's stance is seen as a beacon of support and moral fortitude.

Conclusion

The image of Israel in Serbia is defined by a mix of historical grievances, political alignments, and cultural empathy. Despite the challenges, there is a noticeable mutual respect and shared understanding that has evolved over centuries. As both nations continue to navigate their complex relationships, the image of Israel in Serbia is likely to evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of international relations and historical legacies.