EP: Reforms in Serbia have stalled - Report assesses limited progress and calls for urgent reforms

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EP: Reforms in Serbia have stalled – Report assesses limited progress and calls for urgent reforms

Serbia’s integration process towards the European Union is passing through its most difficult days, as official Brussels issues warnings of a frightening regression.

The rapporteur for Serbia in the European Parliament, Tonino Picula, clearly stated that the reforms in this country have stalled and that the political situation is extremely polarized. Picula emphasized that Serbia’s promises for membership do not match the actions on the ground, citing the absence of European summits and participation in military parades in Moscow.

“The state of the media is shocking and attacks on journalists are returning the country to dark times”, he said during the presentation of the report.

The MEPs also severely criticized the hostile rhetoric of President Vucic and Speaker of Parliament Bërnabiq towards the European delegations that visited the country.

According to the report, Serbia should urgently increase compliance with the EU’s foreign policies, which is currently at insufficient levels.

Brussels said it demands that Belgrade immediately stop repressive measures against students and activists who have been protesting against corruption for months.

The document also condemns accusations by Serbian officials that the West is trying to foment “color revolutions” through student protests.