Brandstätter: Serbia under Vucic’s autocratic regime does not fit in the EU

Reflecting on meetings with government officials, the opposition, media, academia, students, and civil society, Brandstätter noted his primary impression is that the delegation must return, as there was insufficient time to cover all topics. He highlighted a significant issue reported by both the government and the opposition: the existence of "two Serbias" that do not communicate with each other.

The MEP criticized the pro-regime media’s portrayal of the delegation, where they were labeled as "scum" and told they should not have come. He noted that the opposition fears being labeled as "EU servants" by pro-government outlets for simply engaging in dialogue with European officials. Brandstätter personally questioned President Vucic on why he refuses to change the way he addresses them.

Contrasts in diplomacy and conduct

Brandstätter described a "fascinating meeting" with Foreign Minister Marko Djuric, whom he characterized as the opposite of Vucic, noting it was easier to find common ground with him. Conversely, he described the conduct of the Vice President of the National Assembly, Marina Raguc, as "impolite." Raguc reportedly accused the MEPs of disrespect and shortening a meeting they were late to, while also denying the findings of the European Parliament’s fact-based resolution.

"I spoke with victims of the sound cannon; they told me how it felt, and now the Vice President says it didn't happen. Why would I believe her over the victims?" Brandstätter asked. He emphasized that the situation in Serbia is currently worse than last year when the Resolution was adopted.

Pressure on academia and youth

The MEP expressed shock over reports from the academic community regarding the relocation of faculties and professors being barred from working. He warned that any government attempting to control education is making a grave mistake.

"You need free science; without it, there is no future or progress," he stated. He lamented that intelligent young people are forced into the streets to fight for their future, only to be beaten and imprisoned, while police violence is overlooked by presidential pardons. Brandstätter suggested that President Vucic, whom he called an intelligent person, appears to not want a unified society.

EU integration and financial transparency

Brandstätter emphasized that EU entry depends on the will of the majority and the fulfillment of conditions. However, he warned that under current circumstances, Serbia's progress has regressed over the last six months, making accession impossible.

A key focus of his future inquiries will be media ownership and funding. He noted that the EU has allocated €800 million to Serbia for infrastructure and various projects over recent years, yet there is little public information regarding these achievements.

"That is also a mistake of the European Union. We do not explain what we do for Serbia," he admitted. He referenced Minister Djuric’s data that 80% of Serbia's trade is with Europe, though China remains a major partner.

The path forward

For a country to join the EU, Brandstätter stressed the necessity of a strong judiciary, robust media, and a vibrant civil sector. He described attempts to alter key parts of the Serbian judiciary as dangerous and contrary to EU principles.

Regarding opposition proposals for personal sanctions against individuals obstructing the European path, Brandstätter stated he does not believe sanctions are the most important tool. Instead, he argued for strengthening the civil sector and improving communication regarding EU activities in Serbia. Regarding elections, he noted that while the EU does not typically monitor local elections, he believes it would be important to achieve such a mission if possible.