In a recent communication directed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, a group of European Parliament members highlighted the need for a strong message regarding Serbia’s recent actions against peaceful protesters.

The letter, shared publicly by Slovenian MEP Irena Joveva, mentions significant concerns over intimidation, violence, mobilizations against protests, and a heavy police presence in the country.

The lawmakers assert that a clear statement from the EU is essential to signal that further erosion of democratic freedoms in Serbia will not be tolerated.

The letter further emphasizes the necessity for the European Commission to withhold financial disbursements from the Growth Plan to Serbia until all stipulated conditions are fulfilled.

According to the signatories, Serbia's response to the protests will serve as a crucial test of its adherence to EU standards.

The protesters in Serbia have been vocal in their demands for democracy, transparency, and accountability.

As a candidate country, Serbia is expected to uphold these principles, according to the MEPs.

The letter also calls for the expansion of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) jurisdiction to candidate countries.

Per the Growth Plan, Serbia is obligated to support democratic mechanisms, including free and fair elections, independent judiciary, media pluralism, and the rule of law.

The lawmakers assert that the Commission must ensure these prerequisites are met prior to any EU funding disbursements and must monitor compliance throughout the funding period.

The letter points out that citizens participating in protests are calling for transparency and accountability, yet report receiving minimal principled or even symbolic support from EU representatives.

The demands of the demonstrators are said to reflect the core values upon which the European Union is founded.

The MEPs argue that as Serbia progresses on its European path, the Commission bears a responsibility to vigorously uphold democratic freedoms and anti-corruption efforts, particularly when these values are under threat.

The current events in Serbia have been described as a culmination of frustrations, rooted partly in the EU's prior lenient policy toward Serbia regarding fundamental values.

The parliament members believe that the EU's engagement in Serbia should prioritize concrete measures aimed at strengthening the rule of law.

Irena Joveva, during a recent session in the European Parliament discussing the situation in Serbia, expressed solidarity with Serbian students, urging them to persist, stating that 'good ultimately triumphs over evil,' and that a populace seeking justice cannot be defeated.

She acknowledged the significant role that young people have played in driving recent movements in Serbia and affirmed that they are not alone in their efforts.