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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2025/2917(RSP))

On the polarisation and increased repression in Serbia, one year after the Novi Sad tragedy

B-10-2025-0462

on behalf of The Left Group · Rapporteur: Danilo Della Valle

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Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

This resolution addresses the political situation in Serbia one year after the Novi Sad railway station tragedy, expressing condolences, calling for accountability, and urging reforms. It condemns excessive force against protesters, defends fundamental freedoms, and calls for dialogue to reduce polarisation. It also raises concerns about academic pressure, the Jadar mining project, and Serbia's EU accession conditionality.

Key points

  1. Expresses condolences to victims of the Novi Sad tragedy and solidarity with those affected.
  2. Welcomes criminal investigations but stresses they must be swift, transparent, and free from political interference.
  3. Calls for full accountability for those responsible, including in procurement and oversight, and publication of non-classified documents.
  4. Urges safeguarding judicial independence and offers EU technical support if requested.
  5. Welcomes student demonstrations as a civic movement for civil liberties, anti-corruption, and transparency.
  6. Notes the resignation of Prime Minister Vučević and the appointment of a new government led by Đuro Macut.
  7. Calls for constructive dialogue among political actors to reduce polarisation and build trust.
  8. Condemns excessive force and arbitrary detention against peaceful demonstrators, journalists, and civil society; calls for impartial inquiries.
  9. Emphasises that freedom of expression, assembly, and peaceful protest must be respected.
  10. Concerned about political pressure on universities, including smear campaigns and use of temporary contracts to retaliate.
  11. Calls for measures to prevent future disasters, including mandatory safety certification, transparent e-procurement, and whistle-blower protection.
  12. Urges reconsideration of the Jadar lithium and boron mine due to social and environmental risks and public opposition.

Who is affected

  • Serbian authorities and government: must ensure accountability, judicial independence, and implement reforms.
  • Victims and families of the Novi Sad tragedy: receive condolences and calls for comprehensive support.
  • Protesters, journalists, and civil society: protected from excessive force and arbitrary detention.
  • Universities and researchers: affected by political pressure and decree reducing academic time.
  • Rio Tinto and the Jadar mining project: urged to reconsider plans due to risks.

Figures and deadlines

  • 16 people died in the Novi Sad canopy collapse on 1 November 2024.
  • 13 individuals are under investigation by the Public Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime.

Legal basis: Article 2 and Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union