European Union Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has called for an inclusive dialogue in Serbia to address the concerns that exist in that country and for independent and thorough investigations into cases of attacks on protesters.
Three months after a shelter collapsed at the Novi Sad Railway Station, killing 15 people, student protests in Serbia continue. They have been joined by other citizens who support them.
The Center for Investigative Journalism (CINS) reported that since the protests began, there have been more than 50 attacks on students, including being hit by cars and being hit with sticks, punches, and kicks.
In a public letter, Kos responded to several letters he received from civil society organizations in Serbia, academics, political representatives and others.
She said that fundamental values are the foundation of the European project and they must be respected.
In this letter, Kos stated that it remains a priority of the European Commission and President Von der Leyen to support Serbia's progress on the path to becoming part of the European Union.
"The path to EU membership includes reforms, which are part of our shared values and practice. Serbia's path towards the European Union offers solutions to many issues that are at the heart of today's discussions. The reforms that are part of the EU integration process will strengthen the fight against corruption, ensure the independence of the judiciary and the accountability of institutions," Kos said, adding that progress towards the EU will also promote media freedom and improve the conditions for holding elections.
The Commissioner for Enlargement has sent the message that the EU integration process must be inclusive and a joint project, calling for a dialogue that would include political factors and civil society.
"Freedom of assembly is a fundamental right, which must be respected. It must be expressed peacefully and in accordance with the law. Evidence of incidents against protesters has emerged. We expect swift, thorough and independent investigations. No kind of violence should be tolerated. We expect the Serbian police to continue to provide security for protesters. Language that incites violence and lack of mutual respect cannot be a solution," Kos stressed.
"These reforms will have a transformative impact, which will benefit all citizens and will bring Serbia closer to the European Union," she said.
The ongoing protests in Serbia have resulted in the resignation of Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević, and a host of concessions made by the populist government, which is trying to calm the resistance.
However, the students have insisted that they will continue the protest until their demands are met. /REL (A2 Televizion)
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