Serbia: Renew Europe stands with Serbian citizens as government backslides on reforms
Today, the European Parliament adopted its 2025 report on Serbia, warning of democratic backsliding, serious problems with the rule of law, judicial independence, media freedom, and corruption. The report calls for further negotiations to be strictly conditional on measurable reforms in these areas. Liberals and Democrats stand firmly with the citizens of Serbia - it is their government, that is holding the country back. We send a clear warning: the EU will not reward backsliding. Accession must be earned, not granted.
The new Parliament position comes as EU ambassadors meet in Coreper today to discuss opening Cluster 3 of Serbia's accession. MEP Helmut Brandstaetter, Renew Europe shadow rapporteur, said:
"The youth of Serbia have been protesting non-stop for European values but without European flags, because they do not trust an EU that turns a blind eye to democratic backsliding and political violence. The Commission President's push to open Cluster 3 for Vučić sends a dangerous message: that accession is not a merit-based process, but a geopolitical bargaining chip. The EU's credibility depends on one principle: accession is earned, not granted. The people of Serbia, its youth, deserve better."
Helmut BrandstätterRenew Europe MEP, Austria, NEOS – Das Neue Österreich
Serbian students and citizens have taken to the streets to defend democracy and demand a European future for more than a year and a half. "We should stand on the side of those who are fighting for democratic principles – like Serbian youth, not with those who are flirting with autocratic countries and then extorting concessions from the EU" MEP Brandstaetter commented. This is why EU credibility depends on the signal sent today - reforms and genuine commitment to European values are needed before next steps.
The report raises serious concerns about the deterioration of fundamental rights. Journalists, civil society actors, students, and activists have reportedly faced intimidation, pressure, and in some cases excessive use of force. The Parliament calls for investigations into such incidents and urges Serbian authorities to ensure the protection of freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and academic freedom. The public dissatisfaction reflected in the report raises concerns about systemic corruption, lack of transparency, and weak accountability. It also highlights that the Venice Commission's warnings remain unaddressed.
Finally, the report highlights that Serbia must demonstrate a clearer geopolitical alignment with the European Union. This includes aligning with the EU's common foreign and security policy, particularly regarding sanctions in response to Russia's war against Ukraine. A lack of alignment is a significant obstacle to further integration.