The European Commissioner for Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn, recalled on Friday 26 July, during a visit to Belgrade, the EU's main requirements towards Serbia.
For example, at a press conference with Prime Minister Ana Brnabić, the Commissioner called on the Serbian government to pursue reforms, including those concerning democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights. “The focus must be on strengthening the independence, impartiality and efficiency of the judiciary”, he said. Stepping up the fight against corruption and organised crime is also important, according to Mr Hahn.
The Commissioner also stressed the need for an environment that guarantees freedom of expression and the media. In this context, he welcomed the “inclusive and participatory” approach used for the adoption of a media strategy, while recalling that beyond its adoption, this strategy must be implemented. It will be all the more important as legislative elections are scheduled for next spring. Mr Hahn also encouraged the government to implement the recommendations of the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
Similarly, Mr Hahn recalled the importance of the resumption and successful dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, which is “central” for both countries to make progress towards their integration into the European Union.
Finally, the Commissioner warned that, in order to overcome the challenges facing the country, cooperation between political parties, particularly in Parliament, was needed. He therefore welcomed the fact that, for the first time since 2014, the report on independent institutions had been debated in plenary session. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)