The European Movement in Serbia has said that reports suggesting the European Commission is considering freezing financial assistance to Serbia are “not surprising,” arguing that current government policies are increasingly in conflict with EU accession standards and domestic democratic expectations.
The statement comes amid growing political debate over Serbia’s relations with the European Union and concerns in Brussels regarding rule of law, institutional independence, and media freedom.
Criticism of government policies
In its statement, the organization said Serbian authorities are implementing measures that contradict the demands of students and citizens, as well as obligations stemming from EU accession negotiations.
It also alleged that institutions are being weakened and that accountability mechanisms are not functioning effectively, particularly in relation to judicial processes and investigations linked to major public controversies.
The group further claimed that instead of ensuring full institutional responsibility, authorities are undermining investigative processes and limiting judicial efficiency through recent legislative changes.
Concerns over elections and rule of law
The European Movement also referred to concerns raised by international election observers, stating that electoral processes in Serbia have not met standards of free and fair elections.
It additionally criticized what it described as pressure on universities and academic institutions, arguing that such actions reflect broader tensions between the government and independent institutions.
EU integration credibility questioned
The organization warned that these developments cannot be masked by official statements affirming Serbia’s European path, arguing that current trends undermine credibility in the accession process.
It called on all social and political actors in Serbia to resist what it described as negative democratic trends, emphasizing that these developments could affect not only Serbia’s EU path but also broader democratic standards and human rights commitments.
