Serbia and Montenegro each have a single-chamber, democratically elected parliament and a president. Each also contributes members to the bicameral Federal Assembly.
Main Political Issues
Inter-republican conflict
Montengro has recently been showing greater independence from Serbia in decision making, in response to internal pressure and a need to secure its position within the Federal Republic. Serbia, in turn, has sought to undermine the authority of President Bulatovic. In the summer of 1993, Serbia instigated a trade war with its smaller neighbor, focusing on energy and food. Montenegro responded with cuts in the exports of raw materials, such as bauxite, which are essential to Serbian industry, particularly the armaments sector.
Minority government in Serbia
The Serbian parliament remains unstable. In the 1993 elections, the Socialists enlarged their share of seats from 101 to 123, leaving them still three seats short of an absolute majority.
Profile
Serbia is the stronger political player and, as Serbian president, Milosevic is at the center of policy making. In Montenegro, the DPS government elected in 1992 formed a coalition with all the parties except the SRS, despite having themselves received a clear majority.
