EU ambassador: Serbia holds key to its future, but EU doors are wide open

He voiced concerns about increasing polarization within Serbian society, calling for reduced tensions to create space for compromise. He said his goal is to support Serbia’s progress toward EU integration, a challenging but achievable task, while also getting to know the country and its people.

The ambassador underscored the EU’s firm commitment to Serbia’s European path, viewing the Western Balkans’ future as part of the EU. However, he said that Serbia must deepen its commitment to democratic principles and speed up reforms outlined in the Serbian government’s own agenda.

He added that these efforts should be paired with clear communication to counter anti-EU narratives and disinformation.

Von Beckerath noted that recent Eurobarometer data shows stronger support for Serbia’s EU membership within the EU than in Serbia itself. He said he believes Serbia’s EU aspirations can grow, but that this requires national authorities to provide accurate information on the European integration process and address disinformation.

On the technical front, he said, the European Commission confirmed in 2021 that conditions for opening Cluster 3 were met. The next step hinges on EU member states’ agreement, based on Serbia’s advancements in rule of law, judicial reforms, alignment with EU foreign and security policies, and progress in the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, the ambassador explained.

The ambassador highlighted the need to involve civil society in reforms and foster a supportive environment for the civil society. Pressures or intimidation against civil society are unacceptable in the EU, and freedom of the media and expression remain critical priorities, he emphasized.

He concluded that Serbia should pursue these reforms not merely to meet EU expectations, but because they benefit its citizens and are essential for a democratic society. The government, alongside civil society and the opposition, should champion these changes for Serbia’s own good.