Kos: Serbian civil society representatives face smear campaigns and personal attacks

Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, has voiced significant concern regarding the recent surge of smear campaigns and personal attacks directed at civil society representatives in Serbia. She highlighted that over the past few days, numerous individuals from Serbia's civil sector have been subjected to these detrimental campaigns and direct personal assaults.

“

In the past few days, many representatives of Serbian civil society have been subjected to smear campaigns and personal attacks.

Speaking on the social media platform X, Kos underscored the fundamental importance of a robust civil society and active citizens for the health of any democracy. She further stressed that these elements are indispensable for the successful progression of the European Union's enlargement process. The Commissioner's statement implicitly points to the critical role these organizations play in democratic discourse and reform efforts within Serbia.

“

A strong civil society and engaged citizens represent a value for every democracy and are necessary for a successful European Union enlargement process.

Kos firmly stated that the representatives of civil society "deserve respect and the freedom to speak without intimidation or attempts to delegitimize their work." This call for protection and recognition suggests a perceived environment in Serbia where critical voices may be facing undue pressure. The Commissioner's intervention signals the EU's attention to the internal dynamics within Serbia and its commitment to upholding democratic principles.

“

They deserve respect and the freedom to speak without intimidation or attempts to delegitimize their work.