The 46-day Lenten fast for Serbians and other Orthodox Christians is strict. Western Christians, for whom Sundays are exempt, fast for 40 days unlike Orthodox Christians who also fast on the six Sundays in Lent.
On 17 February 2008 the Government of Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. The overall security situation in Serbia remains calm, though there is an increased risk of sporadic incidents and a high likelihood of political protests.
Followed by the New Year celebrations and Orthodox Christmas, the religious observances finally wrap up on January 20th with the day of St Jovan (John), who baptized Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.