Commissioner Brunner: I expect swift implementation of Venice Commission recommendations

In an interview with the Beta news agency, Brunner noted that the Commission’s recommendations concerning amendments to judicial and prosecutorial laws are clear. He stressed that Belgrade needs to act rapidly to ensure that recent judicial reforms are brought back into line with European standards.

The commissioner this requirement also extends to the draft Law on Internal Affairs, emphasizing that any reform of this scale must be conducted in an inclusive and transparent manner.

He underscored that the ultimate goal is to ensure all legislative developments fully comply with EU standards, particularly regarding fundamental rights and the rule of law. To that end, he said that close consultation with the European Commission throughout the process remains vital, adding he expects that a draft will be shared soon to allow for continued cooperation.

Brunner further pointed out that the European Commission's annual reports are a very precise roadmap for necessary reforms. He expressed hope that Serbian institutions would move toward closer alignment with the EU and undertake further reforms as part of the accession process, noting that such progress requires both strong political will and a “whole-of-society” approach.

The commissioner said that, despite the current challenging environment, the EU-Serbia cooperation is built on a firm foundation, driven by a shared interest in regional stability and successful migration management.

He noted that their dialogue remains focused on fundamentals, including the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, the autonomy of the prosecution, and the effective functioning of law enforcement.

Regarding the fight against organized crime, Brunner called for the strengthening of key bodies, such as the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Organized Crime and the Special Prosecutor’s Office for Cybercrime, along with their counterparts in the police force, adding that this is essential for effectively dismantling international criminal networks.

Emphasizing that Serbia is a key partner in this area, the commissioner that cooperation has intensified in recent years through engagement with Europol, Eurojust, Frontex, and the EU Drugs Agency.

On the topic of migration, Brunner described Serbia as a constructive and reliable partner in managing flows along the Western Balkan route. He cited clear improvements in border management, aided by enhanced technology and better operational coordination.

In addition to the financial and technical assistance the EU already provides for reception centers, border control, and legislative alignment, Brunner affirmed that the Union stands ready to help Serbia combat increasingly sophisticated human smuggling networks.