EU Ambassador: Serbia belongs in European Union as host rather than guest

Belgrade, Serbia – The European Union's commitment to Serbia's integration is clear, but the path forward requires decisive action and a genuine embrace of democratic principles. As Ambassador Andreas von Boekerat articulated, Serbia's rightful place is at the EU's table as a host, not merely a guest, signifying a desire for full partnership and responsibility.

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Serbia belongs to the European Union (EU) not as a guest, but as a host at its own table.

However, the message from Brussels is equally firm: progress on reforms, particularly in the crucial area of the rule of law, must accelerate. The recent assessment for the disbursement of funds from the Growth Plan hinges on tangible advancements, and the EU has pointedly noted that recent judicial reforms represent a step backward. This is a critical juncture for Serbia; a stable democracy cannot be built on shaky legal foundations.

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the rule of law sits at the very heart of the accession process.

The Ambassador's candid remarks about the "deep polarization of society" highlight a significant domestic challenge. While the government bears primary responsibility, a call for constructive engagement from the opposition and civil society is essential. The upcoming parliamentary work on ODIHR recommendations, especially concerning the voter registry, demands not just adoption but diligent implementation. Serbia must demonstrate its readiness to align with European standards, not just in word, but in deed. Western media often focuses on the geopolitical chess match of EU enlargement, but for us, this is about building a more just, stable, and prosperous Serbia for our citizens, grounded in the principles we aspire to uphold.

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five recently adopted judicial laws represent a step backward