Historical Heritage and the Future of Serbia’s Nuclear Energy: Dependence, Sovereignty, and Geopolitical Implications

Miljković, Marko (2025) Historical Heritage and the Future of Serbia’s Nuclear Energy: Dependence, Sovereignty, and Geopolitical Implications. Contemporary Southeastern Europe, 12 (2). pp. 94-117. ISSN 2310-3612

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Abstract

This paper examines Serbia’s recent decision to repeal the 1989 Law on the Prohibition of the Construction of Nuclear Power Plants, the so-called ‘moratorium’ on nuclear power plant (NPP) construction, amidst growing debates on the country’s ability to manage such a project, its alternative green energy options, and ecological concerns about nuclear waste. The central issue, however, remains the strategic choice of a technological partner for NPP development, which encompasses geopolitical, security, and long-term economic factors. While recent French initiatives suggest that France could be a potential partner, Serbia’s prior agreements with Russia’s state-owned Rosatom raise concerns about increased Russian influence in Serbia and the Balkans. This analysis draws on historical examples of Yugoslavia’s nuclear cooperation with the Soviet Union, offering insights into the present challenges Serbia faces. It argues that, given Serbia’s technological and financial limitations, cooperation with Russia remains likely, potentially deepening Serbia’s political and energy dependence on Russia and undermining its sovereignty. This dependence would have broader implications for regional and European security. By examining past and present dynamics, the paper highlights the need for Serbia to carefully consider its nuclear energy partnerships, balancing national interests with geopolitical realities.

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