Do people in Serbia speak English?

Yes, many people in Serbia speak English. English is not the official language of Serbia, but it is widely understood and spoken, particularly among younger people. In fact, according to a 2017 survey by the European Commission, 49% of Serbians aged 15 and older reported being able to hold a conversation in English. This makes Serbia one of the countries in the Balkans with the highest levels of English proficiency.

There are several reasons why English is so widely spoken in Serbia. One reason is the country's history of foreign influence. Serbia was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for centuries, and during that time, many Serbians learned German. After World War I, Serbia became part of Yugoslavia, a socialist federation that included several different ethnic groups. English was adopted as the lingua franca of Yugoslavia, and it was taught in schools and used in government and business.

Another reason for the widespread use of English in Serbia is the country's tourism industry. Serbia is becoming increasingly popular with international tourists, and many Serbians working in the tourism industry learn English in order to communicate with visitors.

Finally, Serbia's close relationship with the United States has also helped to promote the use of English. The United States has provided significant economic and political support to Serbia, and many Serbians view the US as a positive influence. This has led to an increased interest in American culture and language in Serbia.

Overall, while English is not the official language of Serbia, it is widely understood and spoken, particularly among younger people. This is due to a combination of historical, economic, and cultural factors.