Strategic Culture as a Driver of Continuity and Discontinuity: From GPD and SSS of the SFRY to the Concept of Total Defense of the Republic of Serbia

This research analyzes the evolution of defense paradigms within the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) and the contemporary Republic of Serbia. Utilizing strategic culture as a primary analytical lens, the study examines the continuities and discontinuities between the legacy of General People's Defense and Social Self-Protection (GPD and SSS) and the modern Total Defense model. By evaluating these distinct strategic frameworks, the paper seeks to identify how historical, social, and ideological foundations have shaped threat perceptions and the symbiotic relationship between military and civilian sectors. Ultimately, the study proposes actionable solutions to optimize the implementation of the Total Defense concept within Serbia’s current security architecture.