If Serbia continues to drift away from democratic norms, it may lose access to approximately €1.5 billion from European Union (EU) funds, warned EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marija Koš, according to LETA citing AP.
International observers report that violence and violations were recorded during last month's elections in ten municipalities in Serbia.
"We are increasingly concerned about what is happening in Serbia," said Kos to members of the European Parliament (EP). She noted that the European Commission (EC) is assessing whether the country meets the conditions for receiving payments under EU financial instruments.
Kos pointed out that the EC is worried about a number of aspects — from laws undermining the independence of the judiciary to the suppression of protesters and restrictions on independent media.
Serbia may be eligible for a significant portion of EU funds intended to stimulate economic growth in candidate countries, provided that reforms are carried out. According to the commissioner, Belgrade has already received €110 million.
Since Russia's renewed invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the EU has intensified efforts to integrate the Western Balkan countries, fearing Moscow's attempts to destabilize the region.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić declares a desire for the country to join the EU, but at the same time maintains close ties with Russia. He ignored EU warnings and visited Moscow last year to participate in the celebration of the so-called Victory Day on May 9.
Last month, experts from the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe visited Serbia.
The commission is expected to present an urgent conclusion based on its assessment in the coming weeks. Kos stated that Brussels expects Serbia to fully align its legislation on the judiciary with the recommendations of the Venice Commission and restore media independence. "Serbia must achieve results," she emphasized.
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