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Serbia
WHO code: SRB
ISO2: RS
ISO3: SRB
Country code: +381
Country groups:
  • WHO_EURO
  • SEEHN
  • HBSC_MEMBER
  • WESTERN_BALKANS
General notes

Serbia at a glance: land, people & language

Serbia is a landlocked country in Southeastern Europe, surrounded by neighbors such as Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia. The landscape is a mix of flat plains in the north, rolling hills and mountains in the south and east, and the fertile Morava Valley right in the center.

The country is home to around 7 million people, most of whom are ethnic Serbs. Belgrade, the capital, is Serbia’s beating heart — a hub for politics, business, and culture. Other big cities like Novi Sad and Niš are also urban centers, as more than half the population lives in cities. But Serbia faces some serious demographic shifts: the population is getting older, and many young people are leaving in search of better jobs abroad.

The official language is Serbian, and here’s something special — it’s written in both Cyrillic and Latin alphabets. Minority languages like Hungarian and Bosnian are also recognized, highlighting Serbia’s rich cultural mix.

Climate & nature

Serbia has a continental climate — hot summers and cold winters. It can get really warm in July and August, sometimes over 30°C, while winters bring snow, especially in the mountains. Rainfall is spread pretty evenly across the year, with spring and autumn being slightly wetter.

For nature lovers, Serbia is full of contrasts: the flat plains of Vojvodina, dramatic peaks in the Dinaric Alps, rivers, forests, and canyons. There’s hiking, rafting, skiing — whatever your adventure mood, Serbia delivers.

Culture, cuisine & curiosities

Serbia has layers of history and culture. You’ll find Roman ruins, medieval monasteries, and Ottoman-era buildings all in one trip. Belgrade buzzes with energy, while smaller towns keep traditions alive.

Food here is a serious affair. Think grilled ćevapi, cabbage rolls called sarma, and ajvar — a rich red pepper spread. Meals are hearty, flavors bold, and hospitality warm.

Fun fact: Serbia is one of the few countries where people casually switch between Latin and Cyrillic scripts — even mid-sentence! And while the language may shift, the sense of home doesn’t: local kitchens turn out everything from flaky pastries to slow-cooked stews, all served with a side of genuine Serbian warmth!

Serbia health profile: challenges and progress

When looking at Serbia health statistics, a few big issues stand out. Heart disease is the number one health problem and a major reason behind high Serbia mortality rates. Cancer and lung conditions are also widespread, partly due to lifestyle habits like smoking and diet.

Still, there’s good news too. Serbia's life expectancy is around 75 years, which shows that, despite challenges, the country is making progress in public health. Most people have access to healthcare through a national system, covering the basics in both cities and towns.

The overall Serbia health profile shows a mix of achievements and hurdles. More health education and preventive programs are being introduced to help reduce the overall Serbia disease burden. Still, rural areas sometimes struggle with access to care — and that’s an issue the system continues to address.

Interesting facts about Serbia

Serbian is one of the rare languages officially written in both Cyrillic and Latin alphabets. Traditional food like ćevapi, sarma, and ajvar are more than just meals — they’re a way of life.

The country is full of historical gems: medieval monasteries, colorful frescoes, and ancient fortresses. Serbia also stands out for its vibrant music, folklore, and a deep sense of hospitality that makes visitors feel right at home.

European Programme of Work (EPW)
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