**Serbian Students’ Plea for EU Support**
A group of Serbian students who have been protesting for five months to defend the rule of law in their country are calling on the European Commission (EU) to take a stronger stance against the Serbian government. The students, who recently arrived in Strasbourg by bicycle from Serbia, are urging the EU to demand the restoration of democratic norms and protect fundamental rights.
According to Transparency International, a press release was issued on Wednesday highlighting the need for EU support. The organization is calling on the EU Commission to use its influence to push the Serbian government, an EU candidate state, to respect civil society, the rule of law, and fundamental rights.
The students’ protest has been ongoing for five months, with them facing restrictions on independent media, undue political influence over the judiciary and legislative processes, lack of transparency in public contracts, and manipulation of electoral rules. Transparency International is urging the EU Commission to take a stronger stance against these issues.
**Corruption and Democratic Reforms**
Transparency International CEO Maira Martini emphasized that Serbians have been calling for real action against corruption and democratic reforms. She stated that reversing the tide of government abuse and corruption in Serbia requires strong, independent institutions and a safe space for civil society to speak out without fear of retaliation.
Nick Aiossa, Director of Transparency International EU, added that it’s time for the EU to listen and send a clear message: there can be no path to membership without genuine rule of law reform and effective implementation of anti-corruption rules. He emphasized that the Serbian government is failing to ensure fundamental rights and the proper functioning of democratic institutions.
**EU Action Needed**
The call for EU support comes as the Serbian government increases efforts to silence the protests. Transparency International is urging the EU Commission to leverage the accession process credibly to deliver fundamental change in Serbia. This includes:
* Halting restrictions on independent media
* Curbing undue political influence over the judiciary and legislative processes
* Ensuring transparency in public contracts
* Preventing manipulation of electoral rules for partisan advantage
The students’ plea for EU support highlights the need for action to protect democratic norms and fundamental rights in Serbia. As Transparency International emphasizes, it’s time for the EU to take a stronger stance against corruption and promote genuine rule of law reform in the country.
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