Joint statement by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas and Commissioner Kos on the early parliamentary elections in Serbia

On Sunday 25 October, the people of Serbia turned out in historic numbers to make their voices heard. Voters have given the next government a strong mandate for change. We look forward to seeing this being realised in practice.

The swift recognition of the election results by the main contestants demonstrates a commitment to a smooth democratic process. The formal certification of the election results should make way for an orderly transition, and for the Parliament and government to be formed without delay in order to begin addressing the key challenges Serbia is facing.

Free, fair and transparent elections in line with international standards are a prerequisite for functioning democratic institutions and required for Serbia to meet the criteria for EU membership.

In this context, the EU takes note of the preliminary findings and conclusions of the international election observation mission (IEOM) from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the European Parliament (EP), the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA).

In its preliminary findings, the IEOM reported the overall efficient management of the election preparations and the positive assessment of all stages of the election day process in the vast majority of polling stations.

The IEOM highlighted that the entrenched advantages enjoyed by the ruling party, including misuse of state resources and a pronounced bias in media coverage in favour of the incumbent party, the intimidation of and pressure on voters, candidates, and civil society, as well as disruptions of campaign activities, marred the electoral environment. Reported incidents of physical violence raised serious concerns.

A tangible improvement and reform of the electoral framework, through an inclusive process involving all relevant stakeholders to ensure the genuine implementation of OSCE/ODIHR and Council of Europe recommendations in good faith remains a priority.

The EU remains ready to work closely with the incoming Serbian government on the fundamentals of the EU accession process, specifically on democratic criteria, independent judiciary and fundamental rights, including media freedom. Looking forward, reducing polarisation of society is essential for fostering trust among citizens and overcoming divisions. The EU stands ready to offer support with the reforms and to turn these into opportunities for the people of Serbia.