Brussels underscores key reforms and bilateral dialogue as Serbia seeks EU accession
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos reiterated that Serbia’s path to European Union membership hinges on fulfilling critical reforms, with a particular emphasis on normalizing relations with Kosovo.
Following a meeting in Brussels with Serbian Parliamentary Speaker Ana Brnabić and Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starović, Commissioner Kos highlighted that Serbia must complete outstanding reforms, especially in the media sector and electoral system.
“I reiterate that implementing media and electoral reforms remains essential for Serbia’s EU trajectory and for restoring trust among all stakeholders,” Kos wrote on social media platform X.
Normalization of Relations with Kosovo: A Key EU Accession Hurdle
Commissioner Kos stressed that normalizing relations between Serbia and Kosovo is one of the most significant obstacles blocking Serbia’s EU accession. She emphasized that dialogue and mutual compromise are crucial steps forward in this process.
In addition to normalization, Kos outlined other major challenges Serbia faces on its EU path, including reforms in the judiciary, ensuring fundamental rights, and aligning foreign policy with Brussels.
Serbia’s EU Accession: Reform Priorities
- Media reforms: Strengthening independent journalism and combating misinformation
- Electoral reforms: Ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections
- Judicial reforms: Improving rule of law and fighting corruption
- Fundamental rights: Protecting minority rights and freedom of expression
- Foreign policy alignment: Coordinating with EU positions on key international issues
Commissioner Kos’s statements reflect the EU’s continued firm stance that Serbia’s integration into the EU is conditional on concrete progress, particularly in addressing bilateral relations and domestic governance reforms.
