Serbia has voted for democracy: EU accession talks should resume
Renew Europe welcomes the outcome of Serbia’s snap parliamentary elections as a new democratic beginning and renewed momentum towards Serbia’s European future. Liberals and Democrats congratulate the Student List on their historic victory, and Serbia’s citizens, who turned out in record numbers to demand change. For two years, Serbia’s students have shown extraordinary courage and determination in their fight against corruption, and for democracy, freedom and the rule of law. Now, the EU must resume accession talks and reforms without delay.
Valerie Hayer, Renew Europe Group president said:
“Serbia’s citizens have voted for change and renewed hope in democracy. The defeat of a nationalist means democratic hope. Europe must respond to this hope, with each step towards democratic reform matched by renewed European engagement. We cannot leave the field open to Russia and China. Serbia’s future lies firmly anchored in the European Union.”
Valérie HayerRenew Europe MEP, France, Renaissance
The Student List’s victory comes despite continuous pressure and recent attempts to suppress the vote of the Serbian diaspora for which liberals and democrats warned ahead of the elections.
Helmut Brandstaetter, Renew shadow rapporteur on Serbia, who was also part of EP election observation delegation to Serbia, said:
“The vast majority of people in Serbia have voted against corruption and Aleksandar Vučić’s authoritarian leadership. The new majority in parliament will now work to establish democratic structures. The European Parliament must provide support wherever we are asked to do so. Talks on EU accession should resume as soon as possible.”
Helmut BrandstätterRenew Europe MEP, Austria, NEOS – Das Neue Österreich
Renew Europe has stood firmly with the citizens of Serbia and proudly nominated the student movement for the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize in recognition of their fight for democratic principles.