The European Green Party has urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to tie EU funds and Serbia’s accession process to tangible progress in judicial independence, media freedom, and electoral integrity.
In a statement ahead of her meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, the Greens called on von der Leyen to demand full accountability and transparency from Vučić regarding the investigation into the Novi Sad tragedy, which killed 16 people in November 2024 due to the collapse of a train station roof.
The party also stressed that the EC President should stand openly with the Serbian people demanding fair and free elections, rather than supporting those who suppress dissent, noting that students and opposition groups have been calling for elections for months.
“Today’s visit sends the wrong signal because the EU must stand with the citizens of Serbia, not with its autocrat. In a moment when citizens are facing repression, violence, and grief, this visit is deeply inappropriate and politically wrong,” the statement said.
Vula Ceci and Kiran Kaf, co-chairs of the European Green Party, emphasized that von der Leyen, as the EU’s highest representative, has a duty to defend the rule of law, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful protest.
“It is deeply regrettable that von der Leyen pays homage to Vučić with an official visit without any visible reservations, while his regime unlawfully detains students and opposition members and violently suppresses protests. This is not a moment for handshakes and photos, but for courage and moral clarity,” said Vula Ceci.
The statement highlighted that the Novi Sad tragedy revealed deep-rooted corruption and impunity within Vučić’s regime, and nearly a year later, the victims’ families are still awaiting justice. Protests demanding accountability were violently broken up, and independent journalists continue to face intimidation.
The Greens reaffirmed their belief that the Serbian people should have the opportunity to join the EU if they wish, and that their aspirations for a free, democratic, and just society must be supported.
“EU accession negotiations must be a lever for democracy, not a reward for repression. If the Commission allows this visit to proceed without clear conditions and demands for justice, it will be remembered as a moment when Europe lost its moral compass and yielded to another autocrat,” added Kiran Kaf.
