BRUSSELS — The European Union on Wednesday expressed concern over violence in the Serbian Parliament and recent actions against civil society groups, urging de-escalation and inclusive dialogue.
“We are very concerned by the disruptions of parliamentary work and the violence in the Parliament,” an EU spokesperson said. “The Parliament must be the place for democratic debate in the interest of all citizens, and must fully play its role.”
The EU also criticized measures targeting civil society organizations, calling them “very worrying.”
“Civil society plays a vital role in the development of a democratic and pluralistic society,” the spokesperson said.
Brussels has repeatedly urged Serbian authorities to reduce tensions and create conditions for dialogue involving political actors, institutions, and civil society groups.
The statement comes as Serbia continues reforms necessary for its EU accession bid, a process that has faced setbacks amid political unrest and concerns over democratic backsliding.
