N1 Exclusive: Details Emerge on 531 Amendments to EU Draft Report on Serbia

N1 has exclusively obtained details regarding the 531 amendments submitted by members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) to the draft report on Serbia. These proposed changes reveal a complex and often divided European perspective on Serbia's progress and its geopolitical alignment.

The amendments highlight key areas of concern for MEPs, including the urgent need for Serbia to align its foreign policy with the European Union, particularly concerning sanctions against Russia. There are also strong calls for a more robust condemnation of election irregularities, a concerted effort to address corruption and undue pressure on the judiciary, a thorough investigation into the tragic Novi Sad incident of November 1, 2024, and the protection of minority rights. These points underscore the EU's expectations for democratic reforms and adherence to the rule of law.

Reflecting the diverse political landscape within the European Parliament, the amendments also showcase differing viewpoints. While some amendments, aligned with far-right groups, advocate for Serbia's non-sanctioning of Russia and criticize perceived EU interference, others, particularly from the EPP and S&D groups, focus on strengthening the rule of law, condemning inflammatory rhetoric, and demanding accountability for incidents like the Banjska event. The Greens and other groups have also put forth amendments addressing police violence and environmental concerns.

This extensive list of amendments offers a granular view of the European Parliament's engagement with Serbia. It demonstrates that while there is a shared desire for Serbia's integration into the EU, the path forward is subject to intense debate regarding democratic standards, foreign policy alignment, and internal reforms. For Serbia, navigating these diverse and sometimes conflicting demands from Brussels remains a central challenge in its EU accession journey.