The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, emphasized the importance of allowing Serbian citizens to protest peacefully without facing repression. Speaking in Brussels on Wednesday evening, Kallas stated that the right to protest is fundamental for those demanding justice, good governance, and the eradication of corruption.
“People have the right to peaceful protests, and it is crucial that they are not suppressed by force. They have the right to seek justice, proper governance, and fight corruption,” Kallas told the European Newsroom (ENR), a joint initiative of several news agencies, including HINA.
Kallas reiterated that such standards are expected from a candidate country for EU membership, adding that the future of Serbia remains in the hands of its citizens.
The statement comes amid ongoing protests in Serbia, where demonstrators are demanding accountability for the fatal collapse of a canopy at the Novi Sad railway station. Protesters have faced violent attacks, with accusations pointing to individuals linked to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS).
Regarding the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Prishtina, Kallas acknowledged concerns about the current format and announced plans to discuss improvements with the new EU Special Representative, Peter Sørensen.
“In March, I will meet with Sørensen to determine how we proceed. I hear the criticism of this format and truly want to explore ways to make it functional,” she stated, reiterating that Serbia and Kosovo’s European paths depend on the normalization of their relations.
