The European Movement in Serbia has warned that the country is approaching the upcoming parliamentary elections amid a deep political and social crisis, arguing that Serbia needs change and far-reaching reforms.
In a statement, the organisation said citizens’ demands for justice, accountability and institutions that serve everyone equally are central to the reforms needed to improve everyday life and advance Serbia’s bid for European Union membership.
“The demands of citizens for justice, accountability and a state in which the law applies equally to everyone, and institutions serve all citizens equally rather than only those in power, are at the core of the reforms necessary for a normal life in the country and for membership in the European Union,” the organisation said.
The European Movement in Serbia noted that it has advocated the country’s European integration for more than three decades, maintaining that EU membership should be a shared national objective that transcends political divisions and the interests of individual governments.
Organisation Accuses Government of Stalling EU Integration
The organisation drew parallels between Serbia’s political trajectory in the 1990s and the country’s current situation, accusing the present government of moving Serbia further away from the EU and deepening divisions among citizens.
“In the early 1990s, the regime of the time led Serbia into isolation, while the current government has once again moved Serbia further away from the EU and deepened divisions among citizens,” the statement said.
It argued that the weakening of institutions and the rule of law, alongside widespread corruption, had stalled the European integration process and contributed to growing public demands for change.
The organisation warned that Serbia must not again pay the price for such policies and risk remaining on Europe’s political and economic periphery.
EU Membership Described as Serbia’s Strategic Interest
The European Movement described the European Union as Serbia’s most important partner, pointing to longstanding historical, economic, cultural, educational and family ties between Serbia and the rest of Europe.
It argued that EU membership represents a strategic interest for both the country and its citizens, stressing that Europe is an integral part of Serbia’s identity and future.
The organisation also credited citizens’ actions over the past two years with helping pave the way towards a modern Serbia based on equal rights and European integration. It expressed confidence that political change could come soon, through cooperation with neighbouring countries and other European partners.
Citizens Urged to Vote
The European Movement said the upcoming elections represent an opportunity for citizens to determine Serbia’s future direction, support the restoration of democratic institutions and rebuild international partners’ confidence in the country.
“These elections are an opportunity for each of us, through our vote, to determine Serbia’s development path, support the renewal of democratic institutions and restore the trust of international partners in society’s vision and capacity to participate sincerely in building Europe’s future,” the statement said.
The organisation called on citizens to turn out in large numbers and freely decide the future of their country.
The criticism reflects the European Movement in Serbia’s position on the country’s political direction and EU accession prospects.
