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The EU’s response to the protests in Serbia came through two main channels:
Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos (February 6)
Emphasized freedom of assembly as a fundamental right that must be respected.
Called for a full and impartial investigation into reported incidents against demonstrators.
Reiterated the EU’s commitment to Serbia’s European integration, highlighting necessary reforms in rule of law, media freedom, and electoral conditions.
Stressed that EU accession is a “whole-of-society” project, requiring participation from government, opposition, and civil society.
European Parliament Discussion (February 11)
The EP report on Serbia was overwhelmingly supported (523 votes in favor).
Confirmed support for Serbia’s EU membership but tied progress to three key conditions:
Rule of law reforms
Normalization of relations with Kosovo
Alignment with EU sanctions against Russia
For the first time, an official EU document explicitly mentioned mutual recognition between Serbia and Kosovo as a necessary condition for dialogue.
Encouraged greater media freedom, pluralism, and freedom of expression in Serbia.
Acknowledged Serbia’s progress in economic development and migration management.
Conclusions
While neither the Commissioner’s letter nor the EP resolution are legally binding, they signal the EU’s balanced stance—avoiding taking sides between protesters and the government while maintaining pressure on Serbia’s EU accession obligations. Marta Kos even congratulated the Serbian police for the peaceful management of the processes. The European Parliament, for its part, puts the emphasis on supporting Serbia on its European path, while reiterating three main conditions – reforms, normalization with Kosovo and joining the sanctions against Russia. The EP’s stronger language on Kosovo recognition marks a notable shift in EU expectations, potentially influencing future negotiations.
