Members of the European Parliament are raising serious concerns over the rapidly deteriorating situation of the rule of law, democratic standards, and fundamental rights in Serbia, calling on the European Commission to respond with urgency and clarity.
In a letter addressed to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the College of Commissioners, MEPs Vladimir Prebilič (Greens/EFA) and Sandro Gozi (Renew Europe, Secretary General of the European Democratic Party – EDP) warn that recent developments mark a significant escalation in the erosion of democratic norms.
Particular concern is expressed over intrusive police actions at the University of Belgrade, including searches, the seizure of internal documents, and the public targeting of Rector Vladan Đokić. These actions, widely broadcast on pro-government media, are described as a clear attempt to intimidate academic institutions and silence critical voices.
“The autonomy of universities, due process, and the rule of law are not optional in a candidate country,” the MEPs state. “What we are witnessing is deeply incompatible with European standards.”
The letter also strongly condemns recent statements by Serbia’s Minister of Information and Telecommunications, Boris Bratina, who suggested that police should use lethal force against students. The MEPs call this “a grave incitement to violence” and urge his immediate resignation.
The signatories express full support for Rector Đokić and the student movement, whose demands for accountability, transparency, and respect for democratic principles are described as both legitimate and urgent.
Looking ahead, the MEPs underline that the only credible path forward is the organisation of free and fair snap elections. However, they stress that such elections cannot take place under current conditions.
They therefore call on the European Commission to take a firm stance, including suspending EU funding to Serbia until concrete and verifiable reforms are implemented—particularly regarding the voter registry and the proper functioning of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM).
“A clear, firm, and urgent response is required,” the letter concludes, “to uphold European values and to support Serbian citizens in their pursuit of democracy and the rule of law.”
