Overview of Parliament Activities
In the Serbian Parliament, ministers earn a salary of 12,000 francs each year, while the Prime Minister receives an additional 6,000 francs. Although 750 pounds a year may not seem like a lot for a Prime Minister, it reflects the country’s approach to governance. The Skoupshtina, as the parliament is called, meets every day at 9 a.m. and usually sits until about 1 p.m. After a lunch break, the members divide into committees for the afternoon and may reconvene in the evening for another hour or two if necessary.
A Lively Debate
During my visit, the main topic was whether the current government, which had only been in power for a week, should stay in office. This sparked lively speeches from the members. It was interesting to see that gestures seemed to matter just as much as the words spoken. One peasant member had a unique way of emphasizing his points. He would press his forefinger against the side of his nose and wink slowly, signaling that he understood the tricks of the government. Another member acted as if his hands were bothersome, trying to shake them off as if they were attached in a way that annoyed him A Day in the Serbian Parliament.
Order and Interruptions
Interruptions did happen, but they were quite mild compared to the chaos often seen in the British House of Commons. When someone shouted “No, no!” the President would ring a bell to restore order. If several members protested at once, he would bang the bell even harder. As the noise grew louder, it seemed like he was determined to break the bell from ringing so forcefully. He would call for a fair hearing and even engage in personal arguments with members, often winning these exchanges by drowning out their voices with the loud clang of the bell.
The Atmosphere of the Chamber
The atmosphere in the chamber was charged with energy as representatives expressed their opinions passionately. The room itself was plain, with color-washed walls and a basic design. Despite its simplicity, the sense of democracy and participation was strong. Members of different backgrounds came together to voice their thoughts and opinions, creating a unique blend of ideas and sentiments Guided Tour Istanbul.
In summary, the Serbian Parliament is a lively and dynamic space where government representatives gather to discuss important issues. The combination of lively debates, colorful gestures, and occasional interruptions gives the Skoupshtina its distinct character. While the salaries and structure may seem modest, the dedication of the members to their duties and the democratic spirit of the assembly shine through. This blend of simplicity and enthusiasm reflects the ongoing journey of Serbia toward a more stable political future.
