The European Union is reviewing its financial commitments to Serbia following the adoption of controversial judicial reforms, warning that these measures are “eroding trust.” EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos confirmed that the Commission is reconsidering a 1.6 billion EUR allocation of loans and grants under the EU Growth Plan, citing strict rule-of-law preconditions. The new laws—signed by President Vučić despite domestic and international outcry—centralize judicial power by granting court presidents greater control over judges and limiting the mandates of chief prosecutors. Critics and civil society groups warn that these changes dismantle judicial independence and jeopardize high-level corruption investigations. While Belgrade has since requested an opinion from the Venice Commission, Brussels has signaled that future disbursements will remain contingent on a transparent revision of the laws to align with European standards. Read more here.
Source: Reuters
