At least 5 EU states oppose opening Cluster 3 for Serbia

At least five European Union member states are blocking the opening of Cluster 3 in Serbia's EU accession negotiations, diplomatic sources told Radio Free Europe (RFE).

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At least 5 European Union member states oppose the opening of Cluster 3 in Serbia's EU accession negotiations.

Sweden and the three Baltic states are reportedly leading the opposition, primarily due to concerns about Serbia's rule of law record. Some member states also continue to object to Belgrade's refusal to impose sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

Cluster 3 encompasses competitiveness and inclusive growth, containing eight negotiation chapters. While the European Commission determined in 2021 that Serbia met the technical requirements to open this cluster, a final decision necessitates unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states.

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Sweden and the three Baltic states are blocking the opening of Cluster 3.

EU institutions are reportedly considering sending encouraging political signals to Serbia in July. However, the European Commission's latest non-paper on the rule of law indicated that Serbia has made no significant progress in key areas. These include judicial independence, anti-corruption efforts, and media freedom. The commission also expressed concern over political pressure on the judiciary, limited progress in prosecuting high-level corruption, increasing attacks on journalists, and a deteriorating electoral environment.

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Serbia has made no significant progress in key areas, including judicial independence, anti-corruption efforts and media freedom.