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Home , Ada Ciganlija, Coat of arms of Serbia, First Serbian Uprising, Kosovo Serbs, Miroslav Gospel, Pelinkovac

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SERBIA Country profile

Project number: UK/13/LLP-LdV/TOI-615 77,474 km2 Excluding POPULATION 7,209 mln

GDP per capita Excluding Kosovo $5,924 CURRENCY dinar (RSD)

Language SERBIAN COUNTRY BACKGROUND

HUNGARY

ROMANIA

Belgrade BOSNIA AND HERZE- GOVINA

MONTENEGRO

ALBANIA

Official name: the Republic of Serbia

Location: the central part of the Balkan Peninsula in Central Southeastern .

Capital and largest city: , 1.135 million National Flag Climate: In the north, continental climate (cold winter and hot, humid summers; central portion, continental and Mediterra- nean climate; to the south, hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall inland.

Languages: Serbian (official) 88.1%, Hungarian 3.4%, Bosnian 1.9%, Romani 1.4%, other 3.4%, undeclared or unknown 1.8%. Note: Serbian, Hungarian, Slovak, Romanian, Croatian, and Rusyn all official in .

Ethnicity: Serb 83.3%, Hungarian 3.5%, Romany 2.1%, Bosniak 2%, other 5.7%, undeclared or unknown 3.4% Religions: Serbian Orthodox 84.6%, Catholic 5%, Muslim 3.1%, Protestant 1%, atheist 1.1%, other 0.8%, undeclared or un- known 4.5% 3 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIA FACTS

Yugoslavia The name previously designated six republics: Serbia, , Macedonia, Bosnia-, Croatia and . The word means “land of the south- ern .” Within Serbia, there are several national cul- tures. In addition to the dominant Serb tradition, there is a large Hungarian population in the northern province of Vojvodina, where Hungarian is the common language and the culture is highly influenced by (which borders the province to the north). In southern Serbia, the prov- ince of Kosovo is primarily Albanian, and has an Islamic culture that bears many remnants of the earlier Turkish conquest.

Languages The official language is Serbian, member of the South Slavic group of languages, and native to 88% of the population. Serbian is the only European language with active , using both Cyrillic and alphabets. Serbian Cyrillic was devised in 1814 by Serbian linguist Vuk Karadžić, who creat- ed the alphabet on phonemic principles. The Cyrillic script itself has its origins in Cyril and Methodius’s transformation of the Greek script in the 9th century.

Recognized minority languages are: Hungarian, Slovak, Al- banian, Romanian, Bulgarian and Rusyn as well as Bosnian and Croatian, which are completely mutually intelligible with Serbian. All these languages are in official use in mu- nicipalities or cities where more than 15% of the population consists of a national minority. In Vojvodina, the provincial administration uses, besides Serbian, five other languages (Hungarian, Slovak, Croatian, Romanian and Rusyn).

4 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIA FACTS

Nikola Tesla Tesla (1856 - 1943) was a world-renowned inventor, physicist, mechanical engineer and electrical engineer of Serbian origin. He is regarded as one of the most important inventors in history. Tesla’s patents and theoretical work form the basis of modern alternating current electric power (AC) systems, including the polyphase power distribution systems and the AC motor.

Ethnic groups Ethnic constitute a majority in Serbia, at about 82.86% (excluding Kosovo). There are 37 different ethnicities in Serbia. Ethnic are concentrated in the Kosovo re- gion of southwest Serbia. Ethnic make up about 3.91% of the population and live in northern Serbia near the Hungarian border. The remaining population consists primar- ily of Slavic , , , Macedonians, Cro- ats, Roma, , Ruthenians, Romanians, , , and .

Belgrade Belgrade is the capital of the Republic of Serbia. It has been the capital of all of the many versions of Yugoslavia through- out history (starting with the Kingdom of Serbs, , and in 1918, through the communist Socialist Federa- tive Republic of Yugoslavia, and ending with the romp Fed- eral Republic of Yugoslavia that lasted through the 1990’s to 2003). It is located on the outfall of the river into the .

In Serbian, the city is called Beograd. The name (meaning white city: beo - white, grad - city) is the Slavic version of its old Celtic name, .

5 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIA FACTS

Kosovo Serbs (Serbian: Kosovski Srbi/Косовски Срби) are the Serbs living in Kosovo, where they are the second larg- est . During the 12-13th century, Kosovo was the cultural, diplomatic and religious core of the Serbian Kingdom. It was also an important part of the 14th century , but was occupied by the Ottomans follow- ing the . After five centuries as part of the , Kosovo was annexed by the in 1912, following the . It was then part of Serbia (and later Yugoslavia), until the 1999 resulted in the de facto separation of Kosovo from the rest of Serbia, followed by its final secession from Serbia in 2008.

Slava The , also called Krsna Slava (Крсна Слава, “chris- tened Slava”) and Krsno ime (Крсно име, “christened name”), is a tradition of the rit- ual glorification of one’s family’s patron saint among Serbs and Montenegrins, and also Serbs in Macedonia. The fam- ily celebrates the Slava annually on the saint’s feast day. Unlike other major Orthodox Christian , i.e. , , Romanians, Bulgarians, Georgians etc., Serbs do not celebrate individual name days, as when a person named after a saint would celebrate that saint’s feast day, but instead they do it collectively as the of a certain family and/or clan. Serbs usually regard the Slava as their most significant and most solemn feast day.

6 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

State holidays: Moveable date during • Moveable date during spring: Orthodox spring: Easter 1-2 January: New Year’s Day Monday • Moveable date during New Year’s Day is a pub- Easter Monday is known as spring: Easter Monday lic holiday in many places “Bright Monday” or “Renew- around the world and Serbia al Monday”. Serbian Orthodox Chris- is no exception. tians: 1-2 May: May Day • Moveable date: Slava 7 January: Julian Orthodox Celebration of the interna- The celebration of patron tional Labour Day saint day of the family, the Orthodox Christmas or Božić dates vary among families. is based on the Old Julian 11 November: calendar. Armistice Day Western Christians and Re- This day is commemorated vised Ortho- 15-16 February: since 2012 to mark the ar- dox Christians: National day mistice signed between the • 25 December: Christmas It is the anniversary of the Allies of and day in 1804 at Compiègne, and the first Serbian Consti- , for the cessation of Muslims: tution in 1835. hostilities on the Western • 1 Shawwal (Moveable Front of World War I. date): Eid ul-Fitr Moveable date during Feast of the end of RAmadan spring: Orthodox Good Fri- The employees of Chris- • 10 Dhu al-Hijjah (Move- day tian, Muslim and Jewish able date): Eid al-Adha Easter Monday is the day religion are allowed not Feast of the Sacrifice following Easter Day. to work on some of their religious holidays: Jews: Moveable date during 10 Tishrei (moveable date during autumn): Yom Kippur spring: Orthodox Easter Western Christians: Day of Atonement is the holi- This day celebrates the res- • Moveable date during est day of the year for Jewish urrection of Christ spring: from the dead. people. 7 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Serbia has a lot of history packed within its relatively small borders, including some of Europe’s oldest settlements and the birthplaces of no fewer than 17 Ro- man emperors, all of which left monuments and palaces behind. Dozens of cul- tures and ethnic groups have left their influence on the country, which has acted as one of Europe’s major crossroads over the centuries. Belgrade’s famous 1st- century fortress has survived at least 38 fires and 60 invasions over its 2,000-year history. Another popular landmark in Serbia’s capital is the former island of , now a popular holiday spot for locals and visitors alike.

Belgrade Fortress Belgrade’s landmark fortress was originally built as a Roman military camp during the 1st century. Visitors who look closely at the walls will notice that they contain dozens of lay- ers, one for nearly each of the 38 fires set in Serbia’s capital over the 2,000-year history of the fortress. The Turks added outer fortifications in 1760, after which the fortress’ appear- ance has remained relatively unchanged.

Ada Ciganlija This island-turned-peninsula on the Sava River has become Belgrade’s most popular re- laxation spot, attracting up to 300,000 visitors on summer weekends. Over four miles of beaches line the manmade Sava Lake’s shores. However, Ada Ciganlija also contains most of Belgrade’s sport facilities - including those of the extreme variety – as well as tracks for walking or cycling. Ada Ciganlija also transforms into the city’s hottest beach party and concert venue after dark.

Fruska National Park At least one full day is recommended to fully explore Fruska Gora National Park, named after its highest mountain, and frequently referred to as ‘the jewel of Serbia’ thanks to its picturesque countryside. Riesling and Traminer are just two of the produced from the grapes that grow on the mountains, and visitors can even harvest honey from bee- hives in late spring. Hiking, cycling, and rock climbing in Orlovo Bojiste are the park’s most popular activities. However, Fruska Gora’s most famous landmarks are its 35 15th and 16th century South Backa monasteries, all of which can be admired on a single guided tour.

Tara National Park The Drina River running through this western Serbia park forms part of the country’s 8 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

border with . The park is named after one of its most impressive landmarks, Europe’s deepest canyon, but also contains countless forests, waterfalls, and deep caves waiting to be discovered. The Drina River Gorge is one of Serbia’s most chal- lenging whitewater rafting spots. One of the park’s rarest trees, the pancic spruce, has grown here since pre-historic times.

Devils Town (Djavolja Varos) These 202 stone pyramids lining southern Serbia’s Tuta River, which range between just one mile and nine miles in height, were created by an extensive erosion process. Two natural springs, Well and Devil’s Water, spew mineral-loaded water up to 1,000 times more acidic than average drinking water.

Lake Palic The healing powers of this serene five-mile long lake near have attracted- af fluent visitors from around the world since the 19th century. The lake’s Great Park has more than doubled in size since its original 1840 opening. Today, Lake Palic is an officially protected area filled with cycling and walking paths around its 11-mile coast. The lake’s surrounding area now contains several beaches, restaurants, hotels, sports facilities, and even a zoo.

Nis The 58 skulls forming this tower, along with the historic Road towards Sofia, belonged to Serbian rebels Ottoman Mahmud II, ordered to be killed during the 1809 Battle of Čegar. Serbian commander Stevan Sinđelić killed not only himself, but also the rest of his troops and several Turkish soldiers when he deliberately fired at his gunpowder depot rather than surrender to the Turks. Hursid Pasha, the Turkish com- mander of Nis, ordered the dead Serbian soldiers’ heads be mounted on a tower as an ominous warning to anyone else daring to oppose the Ottoman Empire. A monument to Sinđelić, whose skull sits at the tower’s summit, stands in front of a nearby chapel.

Gamzigrad - Romuliana Among the most impressive of Serbia’s many buildings from the is this palace and memorial complex. The construction was ordered by Emperor Caius Valerius Galerius Maximianus between the 3rd and 4th centuries. The emperor named the Felix Romuliana palace after his mother Romula. Numerous basilicas, temples, fortifications, and even hot baths are found within this UNESCO World Heritage Site and spa resort.

9 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIAN FOOD

The great variety in Serbia’s cuisine originates from its geographical, - al and cultural diversity, and the jigsaw of centuries of population changes. Influences on Serbian cuisine have been rich and varied – it first began as a mixture of Greek, Bulgarian, Turkish and Hungarian cooking.

Meats

Ćevapi (or ćevapčići) are small sausage-like grilled portions of minced meat. Serbian ćevapčići are made from either , lamb or or mixed. They are usually served as 5-10 pieces on a plate or in a flatbread (lepinje or somun), often with chopped , sour cream, kajmak, , cottage , minced red pepper and .

Pljeskavica is a popular patty dish, second only to ćevapćići. It is often served with ka- jmakmilk cream, ajvar sauce of peppers and mixed spicy sauce. Leskovačka (pljeskavica from ) is one of the most famous types in Serbia and is usually made of beef or pork, very spicy and served with onions. There are however, many other ways of serving it such as Šarska and Hajdučka. Šarska pleskavica is made of beef and stuffed with cheese. Hajdučka pljeskavica is made of beef mixed with smoked pork meat. Recently, pljeskavica has gained popularity in Europe and is served in few speciality fast foodrestaurants in Germany, , and .

Pečenje basically means roasted meat (whole roasted pork, lamb and goat), and it’s one of the most popular dishes in Serbia, especially during all types of celebrations such as weddings or slava. Pečenje can sometimes be very greasy, especially when served cold, which is not uncommon.

Bečka šnicla (Schnitzel) is a traditional Austrian dish made with boneless meat thinned with a hammer (escalope-style preparation), coated in crumbs and fried. It is a pop- ular part of and German cuisine, though variations are present all over the world. In Austria, the dish called Wiener Schnitzel (Viennese schnitzel) is traditional- ly garnished with a slice of lemon and either potato salad or potatoes with and . In Serbia, the dish is called bečka šnicla (Viennese schnitzel). A local urban legend states the dish originated in Serbia and not in , but no one knows why.

Also referred to as “the girls’ dream”, Karadjordje’s steak is a dish named after the Serbi- an Prince Karadjordje. It is a rolled veal or pork steak, stuffed with kajmak, breaded and baked (or fried). It is served with roasted potatoes and tartar sauce.

10 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIAN FOOD

Soups, stews and other “spoon” dishes

Sarma is basically ground beef and rice rolled into cabbage, or grapevine. In Ser- bia, the most popular is the cabbage . Some people prefer it with sour cream (pavlaka), while others like with it. If you are in a fish restaurant by the river, make sure you try the traditional Riblja čorba or Riblji paprikaš (fish stew with juice and ). Even people who don’t really like fish enjoy this dish.

Punjene paprike (stuffed ) is a dish made of paprika, stuffed with a mix of meat and rice in tomato sauce, the ingredients consisting of green or red capsicums, eggs, spices, salt, tomato, minced meat and rice.

Škembići (Tripe soup) comes in many varieties in the Eastern European cuisine. In Serbia, Škembići is one of the oldest known dishes, dating to the 13th century. Škembići are Tripe in vegetable stew with herbs, served with boiled potato.

Pastry

Gibanicais a cheese pie typical of Serbia. It’s one of the most recognizable types of Serbian pastry. It is made of layers of thin dough with cheese, and usually an egg poured over.

Burek is a family of baked or fried filled pastries of Ottoman origin made of a thin flaky dough known as yufka (or phyllo). It can be filled with cheese, minced meat, or mushrooms. There are also some modern variations without any filling, and filled with cherry.

Proja is a Serbian dish made of . It used to be popular in times of widespread poverty, mostly before the 1950’s, but is now a common everyday meal. It is often mis- taken with projara, a somewhat fancier variant of .

11 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SERBIAN FOOD

Salads and appetizers

Urnebes is a type of salad characteristic of Serbian cuisine prominent in the city of Niš and southern Serbia. It is made of cheese and hot chili peppers, with salt and spices.

Kaјmak is a creamy dairy product, similar to clotted cream, very popular with Ćevapćići, Pljeskavica, Prženice or Somun (flatbread).

Sweets

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It is characteristic of the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire and much of Central and Southwest Asia.

Krofne are doughnuts filled with jelly, marmalade, jam or chocolate. They can also be filled with , or cream, but that is usually less common.

Uštipci, also called Mekike, are doughnut-like balls similar to krofne but with more of a soft, bread-like feel to them. They are easier to make than krofne, and they do not nec- essarily have to be sweet. In restaurants they might come with jam and kajmak or with cheese, thus fulfilling the role of staple or desert or even a main course.

Palatschinke is a very popular sweet, served with Chocolate cream, ground walnuts, ground biscuit, or honey. There are many palačinkarnice (pancake shops) where you can buy them. There are also salty version with various types of ham, cheese, etc.

Popular Serbian drinks

The best known Serbian drink is Rakija, a strong brandy (the most common ones are from plum – Šljivovica, Kajsijevača – from apricot, Dunjevača – from quince, and Vilijamovka – from pear). The alcohol content varies usually between 30-40%, but some private distill- ers get up to 50%.

Pelinkovac is a bitter liqueur based on wormwood (pelin). The alcohol content is 28-35% by volume. It has a very bitter taste, resembling that of Jägermeister.

There are several breweries in Serbia making various domestic and international types of beer. The most popular domestic ones are Jelen (Deer) and Lav (Lion).

12 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA INTERESTING FACTS

• Most Serbian last names end with the letters “ic”. • In 274 AD, Constantine the Great, the , was born in the Serbian city of Nis. • Between the 3rd and 4th centuries, a total of eighteen emperors were born on what is modern day Serbia. That number accounts for a fifth of all Roman rulers. • The only Serbian word that is accepted and used across the world is “”. • The Serbian clock-making industry is even older than the world-famous Swiss one. The Serbs had their own clock 600 years before the Swiss did. • The Old Downtown Church that stands in the downtown section of Cacak is home to a religious building that has been turned into a a record ten times. • The very first video transmission between and Europe that took place in 1963 featured the White Angel from the Serbian at Monastery Milesevo. • Europe’s largest gorge, the Djerdap Gorge is situated in Serbia. The mighty Danube river flows through it. • Beograd (Belgrade) is one of the oldest cities in Eu- rope, first settled in the 3rd century BC by the Celts, before becoming the Roman settlement of Singidu- num. • Serbia is the largest raspberry exporter, ac- counting for one third of all the raspberries in the world. • Serbia is the only country outside of CIS to have a free-trade agreement with . • Serbia has the highest number of refugees and internally displaced persons in Europe, a total of approximately 314,000. • The Miroslav , written in the twelfth cen- tury, is the oldest preserved Serbian manuscript. • Silver lake, also called Serbian sea, is the largest lake in Serbia. It is very popular for being one of the clearest and the cleanest lakes in the country. • Kalemegdan is the most popular park in Belgrade be- cause of the park’s numerous winding walking paths, shady benches, picturesque fountains, random statues, mammoth his- torical architecture and incredible river views. • The Cathedral of or Hram svetog Save in Belgrade is the largest Orthodox Church currently in use. • Over 30% of the land is covered by forest, with 5 national parks and 22 nature reserves.

13 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA IMPORTANT TIPS

Dining Etiquette House visits

• When dining out, it is customary for the Upon arriving at someone’s home you will host to pay. You may offer to contribute, be treated to a coffee (almost always black but do not ask to split the bill. coffee, called “Turska kafa” or “Crna kafa”), • Traditional food is based on grilled meat. juice and rakija, usually a home-made one • Serbian food uses animal fats, eggs and in which every master of the house takes dairy, and therefore it is rarely suitable for great pride (it’s a topic they’ll love to talk vegans. about). • Pork is very popular, whether bacon, sau- sages or fresh meat. Don’t miss trying the delicious sweet pre- • Dress in smart clothing for formal dinners, serves “” (literary “sweet”) of which dinner parties and business lunches. you should take just a spoon or two ac- • Remove your shoes before entering your companied by a glass of water. Upon your hosts home. first entry in a household, it is customary • It is customary to give the host a small to bring a symbolic present, for example a gift. bottle of an alcoholic drink, an assortment • Hold a fork in your left hand and the knife of chocolates, or flowers. in your right. • Alcohol is normally served with the meal. In saying cheers, “Živeli”, touch glasses and is a very strong liquor made from pay attention that you look into the eyes of grape skins. all the people you toast with while touch- • Try not to get drunk. Leave your glass ing glasses. Note that your glass will be unfinished if you do not wish to be served replenished as soon as you’ve emptied it, more. so if you don’t want to continue drinking, • Always make eye contact during a toast. leave some at the bottom. If offered to join • You can show gratitude by offering to take a lunch, you won’t talk your way out of it your host out for a meal at a later date. easily (and why would you?), and once you • Smoking is common, so do not be offend- do it, you might easily be offered a supper ed if people smoke while you are eating. and breakfast as well. • Indicate that you have finished eating by placing your cutlery together and parallel to During meals there are not many rules to each other on the plate. observe. Try to follow the pace of your host • Dinners often have several courses, in- but don’t hesitate even one moment to cluding starters, soup, a main dish and then take more if you like the food. The courses . (starters, soup, main dish, dessert) are ac- • Round up the tips to about 10% of the companied by saying “Prijatno” (Bon Appe- bill. tite) and answering “Hvala, takodje” (Thank you, same to you).

14 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA IMPORTANT TIPS

Visiting for Slava The greatest honor for every guest is to be invited to a “slava”, a celebration of a family’s saint day. Do not forget to bring a symbolic gift, such as a bottle of . The most conven- tional greeting is “Srecna slava”, followed by kissing three times on alternating cheeks while shaking hands. Upon entering the house, you will be offered “žito”, a ceremonial sweet made of wheat, honey and nuts; you are required to make the cross sign (if you are Chris- tian), take one spoon and leave it in a glass of water. All that you have to do afterwards is to enjoy the hospitality and eagerly answer all the toasts.

Paying Bills when Going Out By Serbian custom, the host will pay the whole bill when drinking in a cafe or dining out. . You can ask if you may add some money but try not to be too precise; it is better to offer a round after you have enjoyed several paid by your hosts. If someone shows clear intention of buying you a drink, do not try to pay for anything, as it might be considered offensive.

Smoking An almost complete lack of non-smoking zones in a country where a majority of the popula- tion smokes could be an inconvenience for non-smokers. Feel free to ask for a cigarette even if you don’t know the people you are asking. It is not considered impolite.

Foreign Languages Language skills of locals depend on education and age: younger people even in smaller places tend to have good to fair knowledge of English. Amongst the middle-aged and elderly people, only those with better education will know English. Other languages that are often spoken are German, French, Russian and Italian. Knowledge of any Slavic language will prove useful, since many of the common words are the same.

Visiting Churches and Monasteries Upon visiting churches and monasteries you are required to act politely, not to laugh or raise your voice. The dress code does not allow shorts or mini-skirts, which could be a problem in the summertime. When entering, take your hat off. If your visit coincides with a service, you can enter, but stand in one place and don’t walk around. On all occasions women are not allowed in the altar space behind the iconostasis. Ask for permission if you want to take pictures with a flash, especially in a church.

15 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA PEOPLE IN SERBIA As Serbian people are generally open, friendly and direct, showing interest in some- one’s life, politics, interests and dislikes are often basis for conversation. Serbia is gen- erally perceived as being a land of ‘warm hearted people’ where hospitality and cater- ing to the guests is of central importance.

Greeting people ja”). Especially younger women will kiss When people meet for the first time, they friends lightly on the cheek, just once in- say their first name, shake hands (try to do stead of a handshake. Eye contact is valued, it sturdily with men) and say “Drago mi je” and you may expect more physical contact (Nice to meet you). If you meet people you with the people you meet with, but that are already acquainted with, you will just just means that they consider you a friend. shake hands and ask “Kako ste?” (more for- mal) or “Kako si?” (informal, with friends) Since Serbs are, in general, open, friendly (both mean “How are you?”). The usual and direct, personal questions showing “Hello/Hi” is “Zdravo” or “Chao” among interest in a stranger’s life, politics, likes younger people and “Dobro jutro” in the and dislikes are often basis of conversa- morning, “Dobar dan” during the day and tions. You shouldn’t therefore be offended “Dobro vece” in the evening for everyone if people ask you some unusual questions. else. If you are seated, rise when you meet When asking for something politely, use the people, especially women and older men. phrase “Molim vas” (please). Always say When meeting after a longer time or upon “Hvala” for “Thank you”. some celebration, such as a birthday, it is customary to kiss three times on alternat- Serbia is generally perceived as being a land ing cheeks while shaking hands, or, more of ‘warm hearted people’ where hospital- familiarly, embrace. The same procedure is ity and catering to the guests is of central observed when saying goodbye (“Dovidjen- importance. 16 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA CUSTOMS AND ETIQUETTE

Verbal and Non-Verbal angry. They will always show their feelings Communication in their facial expressions, even if they do not know you well. It is important not to tend to stand closer to each other take these expressions personally (except than people in the rest of Europe. In the if you are sure that they are directed at first meeting, they may be more sensi- you) because frustration is very common in tive to personal space, but that space will Serbia and people do not hide it well. Serbs gradually shrink when they get to know are temperamental people and years of someone better. Shaking hands is essential, sanctions (1991-2000), influx of refugees, when you first meet someone and every and a poor economic situation have all time you see the person again. A hand- contributed to the flaring of short tempers. shake should be firm and friendly. Males In these situations, it is best to stand your usually do not kiss on the cheek unless ground. they are relatives. Three kisses on the cheeks are very common among women Conversation or between a female and a male, although The best opening when meeting some- especially among younger people and one for the first time is to smile and be non-relatives, it is fashionable to kiss only approachable. First impressions are very once. If you are a female, you would not important to Serbians, and they may last be expected to kiss your colleagues every for a long time after the initial conversa- time you meet; kissing is usually common tion. Serbians are usually very helpful to among very good friends or relatives, but foreigners and intrigued about their origin not at work. and personal style. If the foreigner is from an affluent western culture, Serbians are Eye contact should be maintained, other- likely to respect them simply because the wise Serbians may perceive you as untrust- westerners are economically better off and worthy or deceitful. Hand gestures are very because friendship with a westerner can be common when speaking and people are valuable. very entertaining and will joke frequently. They may touch you during conversation (or just because they are happy to see you) by patting you on the back (among males), giving you a side hug, or placing their hand on your back or arm.

The tone of voice is fairly normal, but it may be slightly louder. It is very easy to notice if the other person is happy, sad, or

17 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA CUSTOMS AND ETIQUETTE

The local population will love to speak Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina (ex- about their Serbian culture, give directions, cept in , the Serb domi- point to nice places one can visit, recom- nated entity in the latter country). Serbs mend good food, travel and tourist spots, are very resentful of this perception and etc. They will also ask many personal ques- feel it is very unjust. Serbs feel that the tions (eg: origin, education, lifestyle at the western world has received a very biased home country, children, etc). This type of media representation of the conflicts in discussion may carry on for a long time. Bosnia and Kosovo (they feel much more Serbians are very personable and like to strongly about Kosovo because they see make friends, especially ones who are talk- it as Serbian land). They are eager to ex- ative and have a good sense of humour. A plain their side of the story when given a tasteful joke is an appropriate and success- chance. A peaceful, inclusive and tolerant ful opening of a dialogue and puts Serbians approach to world cultures is appropriate at ease. It is important that they do not and acceptable. perceive a foreigner as someone who acts superior in any sense (by being aloof, for instance).

Politics is a free topic to explore, as long as you avoid praising nations that Serbians do not trust or that they might feel animosity for. These may include Americans (due to the bombing of Serbia in the 1999 Kosovo war), Croats and Muslim (due to the 1991-1995 war that triggered the break-up of Yugoslavia), and Germans (who were perceived to be explicitly against Serbia in the 1991-1995 war). These neg- ative sentiments are generally directed at the politics and foreign policies of these nations, and people usually do not give a hard time to the visitors from these coun- tries. Nevertheless, when it comes to pol- itics, it is better to listen to the complaints that Serbians might have rather than give your own strong opinions.

Serbians are perceived as aggressors in

18 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA NATIONAL IDENTITY

The people of Yugoslavia identify primarily with their region. Serbs are more likely than other groups to subscribe to an identity as Yugoslav; many minorities see this identity as attempting to subsume significant regional, eth- nic, and religious differences. Montenegrins also have a tradition of Pan-Slavism, which led them to remain with Serbia even as other republics were demanding independence. However, Montenegro has had differences with Serbia, particularly over policy in Bosnia, Croatia, and, most recently, Kosovo. Religion also plays an important role in national identity, in particular for Muslims, the largest reli- gious minority (and the majority in certain areas, such as Kosovo and parts of Bosnia).

Ethnic Relations The Balkan Peninsula is a hodgepodge of cul- tures and ethnicities. While most of the peo- ple are of Slavic origin, their histories diverged under the varying influences of different govern- ments, religions, and cultures. For example, Slovenia and Croatia are primarily Roman Catholic, whereas most of Serbia is Eastern Orthodox; in Kosovo and Bosnia there is a large Islamic population. The north has a strong influ- ence from Hungary, and the south displays more remnants of Turkish culture. The union of these different cultures under a repressive regime makes for a vola- tile situation; for this reason the entire region has been referred to as the “Balkan tinder- box.” The virulent animosity among different groups has, in recent years, led to civil war. The Serb government has brutally suppressed virtually all minorities to consolidate Serb power. Under Milosevic, a policy of has attempted to rid the country of Croat Muslims in Bosnia and ethnic Albanians in Kosovo when these groups have agitated for self-rule; the results have been ongoing violence and the oppression of ethnic minori- ties.

Yugoslavia also has one of the world’s largest Gypsy populations, who are also treated with intolerance. In the 1980s there was a movement among Yugoslav Gypsies for sepa- rate nationhood, but it never materialized and eventually lost steam. 19 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA SOCIETY

Gender

Gender differences are not so pronounced in Serbia. Women have the right (de jure) to equal opportunities. However, it is customary that women stay at home and raise chil- dren or care for sick relatives. Men also tend to have more control over resources, but Serbian women are quite assertive and persistent in meeting their needs, especially in big cities.

Gender discourse is not very prominent in Serbia, and people do not usually consider it a problem. At work, women are not regarded as having the same abilities as men and are not trusted with certain duties perceived to be unwomanly (i.e. defence and military mat- ters). In politics, there are far fewer women than men, and quotas put in place to address gender representation are usually very difficult to fill.

Ethnicity

At work, ethnicity does not pose a problem, given that the majority of the population is of a one religion. In circumstances where ethnic Albanians and Serbs may work together, there could potentially be some mutual resentment. The Roma are under-represented in public and private institutions, and usually hold no official employment, so it is rare to find cases of Serbians and Roma working side by side. There are no specific work-related problems between Hungarians and Serbians.

Privileges

In Serbian culture, granting certain privileges is definitely expected if you are friendlier with some of your partners, colleagues and clients, as this indicates that they have some- thing more special than simply a superior-employee relationship. If they come to you for a favour or help (i.e. consideration of some of his friends and relatives for employment), and you are in a position to do something, it will be expected that you do it. However, that does not mean that you have to grant them a favour if you are unable to do so or think it inappropriate. If you explain that special favours are inappropriate and that you can give their friend an opportunity for an interview just like everyone else, this should be a sufficient explanation. If things do not work out, your friendship may strain after this, but as long as you explain your position, you can avoid misunderstandings. Colleagues that are also your friends may expect you to keep them in mind for a promotion, but pay increase without the credentials will never be expected in Serbia.

20 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA BUSINESS TIPS

Learning simple words in Serbian is very flattering and impressive. “Dobar Dan” is hello and is com- monly used in formal situations.

Meetings and Negotiations countries, having flashy clothing that flaunts • Building a relationship is very important, wealth is frowned upon and considered and it is therefore usually done before nego- tacky. tiations take place. • Strong colognes and perfumes are quite • Men shake hands when greeting one common. another and maintain direct eye contact. A relatively firm handshake is encouraged. Behavior • Two women will generally meet with a • Much cultural sensitivity and knowledge light handshake, but a kiss on the cheek is of history is needed as many Serbs have very common if they know each other. been taught to blame Western countries for • Business cards are very common their recent misfortune and poverty. and are handed out without formal • Coffee (specifically Turkish) is taken very ritual. commonly during breaks at work and during the day, and it is usually the time for light Business Attire chatter and bonding. • After suffering from years of economic • It is not uncommon for Serbs to drink sanctions, it is common to see outfits and shots of strong liquor before lunch or styles that are somewhat outdated. throughout different periods of the day. • Suits for both men and women are gener- ally more conservative with dark or neutral Conversation colors. • It is very common and polite to • As in most Eastern European ask about family and health.

21 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA BUSINESS TIPS

Punctuality is a desirable trait, especially in business settings.

• Avoiding eye contact is considered disre- Topics to Avoid: spectful. • Kosovo, the wars in the , or the • Drinking and smoking are common in al- Milosevic regime. most every social setting, regardless of age • Discussing politics or US Foreign or gender. policy until a closer relationship is • Usually, personal space is not highly re- established. garded. People often hug and tap each oth- er on the shoulder or touch lightly while Decision-making conversing. Major decisions in Serbia are made by the • It is common to hear people speaking in management. Under Communism, em- loud voices. This usually does not signify ployees had open meetings but they had anger, people just tend to be very little influence. Unfortunately, this is still expressive. the case, even with foreign investors and • Punctuality is a desirable trait,especially firms. Idea-sharing and brain storming are in business settings. not very common, except in the new, lo- cally-launched and pilot-type initiatives, in Topics to Discuss: such areas as alternative press and radio, • Sports, especially the country’s recent creative art, non-governmental organiza- success is and . tions, and the like. • Serbs like asking about cultural differenc- es in lifestyles and systems.

22 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA CORPORATE CULTURE

The business set up in Serbia is very formal and intercultural management will be more successful if you bear this in mind. In business it is a good idea to use a third-party intro- duction rather than making a “cold call”. After years of communist rule and internal politi- cal skirmishes, many people remain suspicious of foreigners.

In many ways, Serbia is the last of the major European transitional economies. The gov- ernment is attempting to enact privatization legislation that may offer opportunities for foreign investors in the ownership and management of previously nationalized industries as well as in the developing private sector. At the same time, business can often be a maze of bureaucracy and red tape.

The best approach is to start out in formal mode and allow your Serbian counterparts to determine when or if to move to a more relaxed demeanor. Always respect the hierarchy and take care to treat people in authority with particular respect.

The Role of a Manager Intercultural sensitivity is important with Intercultural sensitivity is necessary. There Serbia’s attitude toward risk dramatically is often a wide gap between managers and impacted by the negative ramifications their subordinates, although this is less so of failure on both the individual and the in newer companies, high tech companies, group. or other high growth industries. Managers are expected to give precise directions to Approach to Time and Priorities subordinates when assigning tasks so that Serbia is a moderate time culture and there there is no question as to what is expected. may be some flexibility to strict adherence In professional jobs, directions may be in to schedules and deadlines. Nevertheless, the form of broad guidelines with the ex- the expectations of global business have pected method, format of results, and pro- caused the people to adopt relatively strict tocols to be observed clearly delineated. standards of adhering to schedules.

Approach to Change When working with people from Serbia it Serbia’s intercultural adaptability and read- is advisable to reinforce the importance of iness for change is improving although the agreed-upon deadlines and how that changes are still made slowly, requiring a may affect the rest of the organization. considerable amount of thought, planning Successful intercultural management will and evaluation. depend on the individual’s ability to pro- vide and meet deadlines.

23 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA CORPORATE CULTURE

Decision Making In general, subordinates do not expect their managers to seek their concurrence. They are comfortable complying with decisions. Again, this may depend upon the industry, the professional level of the employees concerned, and the corporate culture. Serbia is un- dergoing rapid changes which are impacting business life.

Boss or Team Player? In post-communist countries, a tradition of teamwork has been inherited from the com- munal aspects of the previous era, when groups and work units commonly met to discuss ideas and create plans together. However, those plans seldom resulted in implementation or results, leading to apathy and cynicism among the workers. Today the after-effects are still evident among much of the older generation, resulting in a lack of drive and energy. However, there is vibrancy among the younger generation, who seem to be eager to tack- le many of the challenges and seize the opportunities presented. They will participate in teams and share ideas, but they will need to be coached in the process.

Communication and Negotiation Styles Expect to have several meetings before ironing out business details. Developing a per- sonal relationship takes precedence over business matters. Expect a good deal of bureau- cracy and red tape, especially when dealing with government agencies. Patience may be a necessary cross-cultural attribute. Decision making takes time, as each item must be analyzed and agreed upon before moving on to the next item.

Negotiation meetings are not always straightforward. It is not uncommon for Serbians to raise their voices during negotiations. Serbians are tough negotiators: your initial offer should be reasonable, but should have some wriggle-room.

In , superiors are addressed with a respectful pronoun. There is a re- spectful, professional, but friendly relationship between superiors and employees. It is common for management to share jokes and laugh with their staff. When addressing your superiors, you refer simply to their professional title rather than to Mr./Mrs/Ms. For example, if you are addressing your director, you would say: “Director, would you please sign this form”. All other colleagues you can address by their first name. In formal corre- spondence, or when you refer to a business partner in conversation, you should use Mr., Mrs. or Ms. before the last name of the person. Informally, people usually use clients’ or customers’ last names without titles.

24 Learnmera Oy www.thelanguagemenu.com Country profile SERBIA Veronica Gelfgren Research Yulia Bazyukina Research, layout Marja-Liisa Helenius Proofreading

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