A European Parliament fact-finding mission visited Serbia from 22–24 January to assess the political crisis, EU-related reforms, and democratic standards. During meetings in the National Assembly, pro-EU opposition parties called on the EU to remain actively engaged, urging conditionality linked to reforms, including the use of EU Growth Plan funds, and advocating for free and fair snap elections. In contrast, representatives of the ruling majority accused the European Parliament and its rapporteur for Serbia Tonino Picula of bias and questioned the objectivity of the mission. The delegation, led by MEP Marta Temido also met with government officials, civil society, media, academia, and EU diplomats, underscoring the EU’s continued scrutiny of Serbia’s enlargement path and reform commitments. The meetings underscored the EU’s ongoing scrutiny of Serbia’s EU accession path and emphasized that progress on democracy, the rule of law, fundamental rights and media freedom remains essential for Serbia’s future in the EU. Read more here.
Source and photo credit: EWB
