Balkans: February 4, 2004

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Slobodan Milosevic's Socialist Party (Serbian Socialist Party) is trying to form a minority-party coalition government in Serbia. Last years elections positioned the Socialists to play swing voter with other Serbian parties. The Socialists have 22 of 250 seats, but can barter their votes for concessions. The test vote on February 4 was a signal that the Socialists think they can increase their influence. However, if the Socialists actually exercise any significant policy power, look for quick cutbacks in economic support from Western Europe and the US.