Serbia’s Environment for Civil Society to be Monitored by EU
The European Commission will keep a close eye on the situation in Serbia. This comes after police raids were carried out at four non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that promote democracy.
These NGOs are being investigated for using US aid money incorrectly. A senior prosecutor said this on Tuesday. The US Justice Department was also asked to provide more information.
A spokesperson for the European Commission said they will monitor the situation closely. They pointed out that a good environment for civil society is needed in Serbia, as stated in their last plan for enlargement. This plan says that Serbia should allow NGOs to work freely and without pressure.
The official continued, “Civil society plays an important role in making democratic societies more pluralistic.” They said this was not just a European Union value but also a fundamental one for any country hoping to join the EU.
Some of the NGOs under investigation received funding from state institutions. Transparency Serbia, a human rights organization, confirmed this on Tuesday.
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