MEP: Media freedom key in readiness to join EU

In an interview with the EWB, David McAllister, a member to the EP, said there were “the policy fields (in Serbia) where progress is now urgently needed, such as convincing reforms and track records on the rule of law."

"This concerns in particular judiciary reforms, the fight against corruption and organised crime and the freedom of expression and media," he added.

Speaking about the situation in the media sphere, McAllister said some of the recent findings in the Freedom House report on media freedom in Serbia, were also noted in the European Commission and EP reports.

The latest Freedom House report showed that Serbia dropped in ranking from Free to Partly Free country, scoring 67 of a possible 100 points, six points less than a year earlier.

"When we talk about media freedom, the European Parliament has been very clear. Media freedom is a key indicator of a country’s readiness to become part of the EU," McAllister told the EWB.

He added that “it implies a commitment to democracy, good governance and political accountability through political dialogue, critical discussion and debate and expression of differing opinions. The freedom of media is crucial for every democracy."