The EU could cut billions of euros for Serbia. Brussels cites democratic slippages and rapprochement with Russia
The European Commission is considering the possibility of suspending or significantly reducing funds destined for Serbia, in a decision that could affect up to 1.5 billion euros, amid concerns about democratic developments and Belgrade's close relations with Russia, according to information published by Politico.
The EU could cut billions of euros for Serbia. PHOTO: Shutterstock
Although it is not an EU member state, Serbia has been a candidate for accession since 2014 and benefits from European funds to support reforms. A possible suspension of funding would further complicate the Union's enlargement process at a time when other states, such as Ukraine or Montenegro, are trying to speed up accession, while some European capitals, including France, are calling for caution.
The alarm signals are coming from within the Commission itself.
“We are increasingly concerned about what is happening in Serbia”said Marta Kos. “From laws undermining the independence of the judiciary to crackdowns on protesters and repeated interference with independent media.”
According to some European officials quoted by Politico, Belgrade's relationship with Moscow has become a central element in the evaluation of the relationship with the EU, in the context of the war in Ukraine. Serbia has not aligned itself with the sanctions imposed by the Union against Russia and continues economic and political cooperation, including in the energy field.
The Commission is currently checking whether Serbia still meets the conditions for accessing European funds.
“We assess whether the criteria for payments made under EU financial instruments are met”, Marta Kos explained.
In recent weeks, domestic pressure to block the funding has grown amid criticism of judicial reforms promoted by President Aleksandar Vučić and widespread protests across the country. A legislative package aimed at reorganizing the judicial system has been categorized as a “serious step back” by European officials.
On the other hand, Belgrade is trying to calm the tensions.
“We are confident that the suspension of funding will not be reached and we are not giving up on full EU membership”, said Danijel Apostolović, emphasizing that the dialogue with Brussels continues.
An important role in the final decision could be played by the Venice Commission, which is to issue an opinion on the controversial legislative changes. Brussels has already signaled that it expects Serbia to align its legislation with the forum's recommendations.
The European Union remains Serbia's main financial supporter, with hundreds of millions of euros in grants in recent years and billions promised conditional on reforms. In total, Belgrade has benefited from over 7 billion euros from the EU since 2000.
However, the relationship between the two sides is increasingly strained. Criticism of media freedom and the rule of law has intensified, and civic organizations warn that the situation is rapidly deteriorating. In parallel, Serbia's constant rapprochement with Russia and lack of alignment with European foreign policy are considered by EU officials as a turning point.
“As a candidate country, we expect Serbia to align more closely with our foreign policy positions,” pointed out Marta Kos, suggesting that Brussels' patience with Belgrade is increasingly limited.
