In a resolution adopted on Wednesday, the European Parliament strongly condemns the ongoing political polarisation and state repression in Serbia one year after the Novi Sad tragedy. MEPs want comprehensive and transparent legal proceedings to bring those responsible for the collapse of the railway canopy to justice.

Right to protest

Supporting the rights of Serbian students and citizens to peaceful protest, Parliament calls for accountability and democratic reforms in the country. Civic courage, commitment to non-violence and youth engagement are important, MEPs say, for the advancement of Serbia’s EU membership perspective.

They are deeply concerned about the tense and polarised climate fuelled by hate speech, anti-EU and pro-Russian propaganda, and smear campaigns spread by government-controlled media and officials. There has been, MEPs argue, a gross failure from government representatives to face up to and come to terms with Serbia’s past. Specifically denouncing unlawful…