**EU Commissioner Calls for Calm in Serbia as RTS Blockade Continues**
The European Union is closely monitoring the blockade of Serbia’s national broadcaster, Radio Television Serbia (RTS), following a post by EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos on the social media platform X. In her message, Kos called on all parties to refrain from further tensions and expressed concern over the potential criminal charges being sought against the rector of Belgrade University.
The blockade began on Monday when students in Serbia occupied the RTS buildings at two locations in Belgrade, protesting what they see as biased reporting by the broadcaster on socio-political issues. The students are demanding a transparent election for the Regulatory Body for Electronic Media (REM) Council, which was recommended by Commissioner Kos in her message.
Kos emphasized that public media have a responsibility to serve the public interest and provide space for all legitimate positions. She also highlighted the importance of fighting corruption and advancing rule of law reforms, including strengthening media pluralism, as key steps towards Serbia’s progress on its European path. The EU has offered support to Serbia in this process.
In response to Commissioner Kos’ message, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic briefly addressed the situation during a tour of an EXPO 2027 construction site in Belgrade. While not directly engaging with Kos’ comments, Vucic seemed to downplay the significance of the blockade and instead emphasized the government’s efforts to develop Serbia.
**Analysis:**
The ongoing blockade of RTS is a complex issue that highlights the tensions between the Serbian government and civil society groups over issues such as media freedom and corruption. Commissioner Kos’ message on X reflects the EU’s concern for these developments, particularly in light of Serbia’s European aspirations.
By calling for calm and emphasizing the importance of democratic dialogue, Commissioner Kos is signaling the EU’s expectation that Serbia will address its internal challenges and strengthen its commitment to European values. The blockade has brought attention to the government’s handling of media freedom and corruption, issues that are crucial for Serbia’s progress on the EU path.
The Serbian President’s response seemed to be an attempt to shift focus away from the controversy surrounding RTS and towards the government’s development projects. However, this approach may not be sufficient in addressing the underlying concerns about media freedom and corruption that have sparked the blockade.
**Commentary:**
Marta Kos’ message on X reflects a nuanced understanding of the complex situation in Serbia. By highlighting the importance of democratic dialogue and transparency in resolving the standoff over RTS, Commissioner Kos is emphasizing the EU’s expectation that Serbia will take concrete steps towards addressing its internal challenges and strengthening its commitment to European values.
The blockade has brought attention to issues that are crucial for Serbia’s progress on the EU path. While President Vucic’s response seemed to downplay the significance of the controversy surrounding RTS, it is clear that the situation requires a more substantial engagement from the government.
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