European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, stated that the demands from students and protesters in Serbia are aligned with the expectations the European Commission has for the country. These include urgent reforms, particularly in electoral and media legislation, and the establishment of a media regulator.
Kos emphasized that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić had given assurances on these matters during a meeting in Brussels. She expressed admiration for the energy shown by the protesters in their fight for change, noting that she had protested the violence and intimidation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Serbia.
Kos also highlighted that, while the protests reflect public discontent, Serbia must implement crucial reforms to continue EU accession talks. She emphasized the importance of media and electoral law reforms, as well as the government’s treatment of NGOs.
Regarding Serbia’s alignment with EU foreign policy, Kos pointed out that Serbia is at 65% alignment, compared to countries like North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro, which are fully aligned. She warned that Serbia’s flirts with Moscow, particularly any military parade attendance in Moscow by President Vučić, could negatively affect the EU accession process.
Kos concluded by stressing that the EU is on the side of reforms in Serbia and that its future within the EU depends on fulfilling the clear conditions set for membership.
