In contemporary Serbian politics, the phenomenon of hunger strikes has emerged as a notable expression of protest, akin to the dystopian images from the novel and film 'The Hunger Games.' The narrative is echoed in the actions of various political and student groups who threaten or engage in hunger strikes to voice their demands.

Recently, a group of students led by Miloš Pavlović has threatened to embark on a hunger strike, calling themselves 'students who want to learn.' They oppose the prolonged blockades imposed by other student factions that have halted educational activities over demands related to regional issues and political reforms.

This particular situation unfolded as the students called for the blockade to end, allowing them to return to their studies.

Scheduled for June 1, 2023, the hunger strike was postponed to St. Vitus Day on June 28, following discussions with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, who urged them to reconsider, emphasizing concerns over their health.

Historically, hunger strikes in Serbia have not achieved notoriety comparable to those employed by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, whose protests became emblematic of the struggle against colonial rule.

Notably, the political landscape in Serbia has seen a variety of hunger strikes since the beginning of the 21st century, reflecting ongoing political tensions.

Among these noteworthy instances, Tomislav Nikolić's hunger strike in 2011 sought early elections and concluded following appeals from religious leaders.

Other examples include Miladin Ševarlić and Boško Obradović's hunger strikes in the Serbian Assembly during political contradictions regarding discussions on Kosovo in 2020, and various counter-hunger strikes from other politicians.

The intensity and frequency of such actions suggest a potential dilution of their seriousness, with observers noting that this trend may foster a lack of public perception of hunger strikes as urgent or extreme.

George Bernard Shaw characterized hunger strikes as a 'practical form of determination to die' rather than submit to imposed penalties.

This concept raises ethical and legal questions pertaining to individual autonomy and the responsibilities of medical professionals tasked with preserving life.

Specific guidelines exist for managing hunger strikes in correctional contexts, where international declarations advise against forcible feeding unless individuals lose consciousness.

Despite the serious nature of hunger strikes, their historical and current context in Serbia indicates a marked divergence from the urgent political expressions seen in other parts of the world.

The public's response to these protests may hinge on varying perceptions of the actors involved, particularly in cases involving students, who are often viewed with sympathy compared to seasoned politicians.

As protest strategies evolve, the legal, medical, and ethical implications of hunger strikes present ongoing challenges for state actors and society alike, blurring the lines between legitimate political protest and performative spectacle.