The Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the Bundestag, Michael Roth, has warned that the European Union’s policy in the Western Balkans has failed.
Speaking about ongoing protests in Serbia, Roth stated that if the EU does not change its approach to the region, there could be threats of war, increased instability, nationalism, and authoritarianism. He expressed concern that Serbs have been protesting for European values but no longer view the EU as an ally, stating, “It’s hard for anyone in the Western Balkans to still believe in the EU perspective.” He added that the protesters are disillusioned with the EU, especially given its long-standing cooperation with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
Roth emphasized that the EU cannot afford to lose the Western Balkans as a region committed to democracy, the rule of law, freedom, security, and prosperity. He called for a “Zeitenwende” (turning point) in the EU’s approach, warning that failure to act could lead to greater instability and the rise of nationalism and authoritarianism in the region.
