Marta Kos, the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, discusses the protests in Serbia, emphasizing that every government should heed the voices of its citizens.

“Serbia is facing significant challenges, and as the European Union, we wholeheartedly support Serbia’s European journey,” states Marta Kos, stressing that there is “still much work to be done.”

She points out that while Serbia has been a candidate country for a considerable time, it has yet to complete all necessary reforms.

“That is why we are assisting in implementing these reforms,” she shares with Deutsche Welle.

She further notes, “The recent protests reflect the public’s frustration with their circumstances. It is crucial for every government to listen to what its citizens are expressing.”

“In many respects,” she adds, “the protesters are articulating the very demands that the EU has for Serbia, such as tackling corruption, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring media freedom. Thus, we share a mutual interest, and I am hopeful that we can truly stabilize Serbia.”

Why are there no EU flags at protests?

On the topic of the absence of EU flags at protests in Serbia, unlike in Georgia, Kos mentions she has inquired about this from various contacts in Serbia, including civil society groups and academic institutions.

“Their responses are quite interesting: first, they say, ‘You support our President Vučić.’ Second, they point out, ‘You bombed us. Even if it was NATO, you bombed our nation.’ Third, they voice, ‘You expect us to recognize Kosovo.’ Lastly, there’s a fear of provoking Russia. The sentiments vary widely, and these are considerations we need to acknowledge. That’s why we aim to better communicate the advantages of EU enlargement,” explains the European Union Commissioner.

The issue of Kosovo

Regarding the resolution of the Kosovo issue as a prerequisite for EU membership, Marta Kos emphasizes:

“I always say that pursuing EU membership comes with commitments and responsibilities. It’s a matter of choice. No one is pressuring Serbia. But when they declare, ‘Yes, we wish to become an EU member,’ they must follow through on various obligations.”

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