Detours of Social Consciousness The article highlights deep societal divisions in Serbia, exemplified by a graffiti incident where young people label WWII liberators as occupiers, contrasting with an older generation’s respect for anti-fascist fighters. It discusses the media debate surrounding a documentary on Tito and the broader trend of rejecting Yugoslavia’s legacy in favor of nationalism, fueled by current political narratives. The author argues this suppression of Yugoslavia’s history serves to mask current government failures and foster antagonism towards neighboring countries, leading to a pervasive indoctrination that hinders democratic progress.

• Graffiti incident in Belgrade reveals generational divide on WWII historical interpretation, with youth labeling liberators as occupiers.
• Debate on RTS about a Tito documentary reflects wider societal conflict over historical memory and national identity, prioritizing Serbian nationalism over Yugoslavian past.
• The article criticizes the promotion of nationalism and antagonism towards regional neighbors by current authorities, suggesting it serves to homogenize the population and distract from government failures.
• Suppression of Yugoslavia’s legacy and the rise of right-wing, nationalist sentiments are seen as detrimental to pro-European and democratic aspirations in Serbia.
• Student protests for change are observed, but the article questions the depth of their ‘rebellion’ and notes the paradoxical criticism from both regime and opposition circles.
• The author concludes that the prevailing atmosphere of anti-fascism rejection, suppressed leftism, religious indoctrination, and rigid nationalism poses a significant threat to Serbia’s democratic future.