Brussels – European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, has called for an inclusive dialogue in Serbia to address ongoing concerns and has urged independent and thorough investigations into the attacks on protesters.
Three months after the collapse of a shelter at the Novi Sad Railway Station, which claimed 15 lives, student-led protests continue in Serbia, now joined by other citizens in solidarity.
According to the Center for Investigative Journalism (CINS), over 50 attacks against students have been reported since the protests began, including incidents where protesters were run over by cars, beaten with sticks, and kicked.
In response to letters from Serbian civil society organizations, academics, and political representatives, Kos emphasized that fundamental values are the cornerstone of the European project and must be upheld. She reaffirmed that the European Commission, under President Ursula von der Leyen, remains committed to supporting Serbia’s progress toward EU membership.
“The path to EU accession requires reforms that align with our shared values and practices. Serbia’s EU integration process offers solutions to many of today’s pressing issues. These reforms will strengthen the fight against corruption, ensure judicial independence, and increase institutional accountability,” Kos stated, adding that progress toward EU membership will also promote media freedom and improve election conditions.
Kos stressed the importance of an inclusive integration process, calling for dialogue between political actors and civil society.
“Freedom of assembly is a fundamental right that must be respected. It should be exercised peacefully and in accordance with the law. Evidence has emerged of incidents against protesters. We expect swift, full, and independent investigations. No form of violence should be tolerated. We also expect the Serbian police to continue ensuring the safety of demonstrators. Hate speech and disrespect cannot be part of the solution,” she added.
Kos underscored that EU-related reforms will have a transformative impact, benefiting all Serbian citizens and bringing the country closer to the European Union.
Ongoing Protests Lead to Political Consequences
The persistent protests in Serbia have already resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević and a series of concessions from the populist government, which is attempting to quell public unrest.
However, student demonstrators insist that protests will continue until their demands are met.
Student Protest Demands
Students are calling for:
- The full disclosure of documentation related to the reconstruction of the Novi Sad Railway Station to establish accountability for the November 1, 2024, accident.
- The identification and prosecution of those responsible for attacking demonstrators.
- The release of arrested activists and the dismissal of legal proceedings against them.
- Increased budget allocations for universities.
