Fajon, Bilcik call for reduction of tensions in Serbia

In a reaction to recent incidents, including a violent event in front of the Serbian Parliament and the announcement of elections on 21 June, the MEPs said that the role of the media is more important than ever. “Due to the consequences of the COVID-19 that will lead to restrictions on the normal conditions for carrying out the electoral campaign, the role of media is more important than ever. In this regard, a step-change in addressing the area of media and the role and regulation of the public broadcasters is crucial for a successful electoral process,” the statement said and expressed concern about the polarization of the media, their use for political and personal attacks and an escalation of tensions.

“Let us be clear, it is the responsibility of all politicians to avoid inflammatory language, to counter hate-speech, to avoid aggravating social divisions by respecting political opponents, and not to mislead the public with disinformation in the media before, during and after the electoral campaign,” they said.

“We call on politicians in public and through the media to de-escalate tensions and re-focus on putting forward policy agendas that are pro-European and in the spirit of democratic society and that promotes development of the country and prosperity of the Serbian people. We call on the media to report objectively and professionally in the interest of the citizens.

“We call on all political forces and citizens to engage in the electoral process as to ensure the widest possible representation and promotion of different ideas and contributions which reinforce pluralism and strengthen democracy. As the country emerges from the extraordinary COVID-19 lock-down, it is more important than ever that all political forces and citizens have full confidence in the integrity of the electoral process. Nobody should be exposed to any unnecessary risks when performing their political campaigns and in casting their votes,” they added.

“We continue to monitor closely the conditions for holding parliamentary elections and expect the authorities to fully implement all of the commitments made in the three rounds of the Inter-Party Dialogue,” the statement said.