Nemec: EU activation regarding Serbian elections is crucial

International and local observer missions documented serious electoral irregularities, with the most significant ones observed in the local elections in Belgrade. According to CRTA, organized voter migrations occurred to an extent that crucially influenced the outcome of the very close elections for the Belgrade City Assembly, said EWB.

The web portal European Western Balkans (EWB) spoke with MEP Matjaz Nemec from the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) Group about the Serbian elections, the EP Resolution on Serbia, and the opposition’s request for an international investigation into the alleged election irregularities.

EWB: During the debate in the European Parliament, you said that you cannot imagine the future of the EU without Serbia. Considering the current state of democracy, how feasible is Serbia’s progress on the path to the EU?
Matjaz Nemec: It is true, the idea of the European Union without Serbia and other countries of the Western Balkans being part of it is difficult for me to imagine in the future. The enlargement to the Balkans is strategically very important for the EU, especially now when we are surrounded by conflicts and instability.

On the other hand, membership would bring many advantages and ultimately prosperity for the people in Serbia. In the end, our common goal is to live better and in peace. Therefore, the question is not so much whether I see Serbia in the Union, but rather whether the Serbian political leadership shares this proEU view. Is membership in the Union truly their ultimate goal?

Judging by many statements and actions of the ruling government, it seems that sitting on multiple chairs at once—from Russian, Chinese, American to European—pleases them greatly. Furthermore, it appears to benefit them in many ways, which should be alarming for the Union. The Union should not be just an ATM, in quotes, but rather a strategic partner that shares values of democracy, the rule of law, peace, freedom, and is aligned in foreign policy with the candidate country. At this moment, we need more honesty, political will, and tangible results from Serbia to be able to talk about a credible partner.

EWB: Do you expect increased engagement from the EU concerning elections and meeting the demands of citizens and the opposition for initiating an international investigation into electoral irregularities?

Matjaz Nemec: I believe that our activation is crucial. Calls for an independent investigation are coming from the European Parliament, civil society in Serbia, and rightfully disappointed voters. Presidents of foreign affairs committees from 20 European countries are also urging action from the EU leadership. The pressure for institutions and the international community to intervene is significant. Our commitments and positions must not remain mere words on paper!

People in Serbia deserve democracy; many fight for it every day. Fair and free elections are the key to democratically elected authorities. Given all the accusations, testimonies, and recorded irregularities during the elections in December, it is impossible to speak about fairness and freedom.

Read the full interview here.