Issue and Opponent: The issue was the corruption of the Serbian government, focused on Milosevic’s control over the police, his wife controlling the party, and personal embezzlement. Otpor activists led this action. The dilemma action was part of Option!’s larger campaign against Milosevic for free and fair elections, and ridding Serbia of corrupt governmental practices. Other tactics used included mass strikes, football matches, and the “dinar for a change” action which allowed Serbians to hit a barrel with Milosevic’s face for the price of one dinar.
Dilemma Action: Serbians participated in this action to show their dislike of sitting President Milosevic. In Nis, over two thousand protestors gathered for a false birthday celebration for the President. Included in this celebration were cake, gifts, and a large birthday card. Protestors were encouraged to write their birthday wishes for Milosevic and present gifts including “a one-way
ticket to the Hague, prison uniform, books by Mira Markovic [the President’s wife], handcuffs, and a birthday cake in the shape of a five-pointed star.” The cake was then served to the protestors, and Optor! received the gifts. The lose-lose of this dilemma was either to acknowledge the protestors, and possibly use force, punishing what could be called a birthday party for the president, or ignoring it, and allowing the opposition to gain ground and support.
Outcomes: Due to Optors! Repeated dilemma actions and gathering of support, Milosevic lost the elections in 2000. After this happened, Optor encouraged citizens to participate in a universal strike to effectively close the country and force the recognition of the elections.