The Delegation of the European Union to Serbia issues the following statement together with the Embassies of the following EU Member States: Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Republic of Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden.
The European Union continues to follow closely the current political situation in Serbia. As the country will soon mark one year since the tragic canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station on 1 November last year, we wish to express once again our deepest condolences and heartfelt solidarity with the families and loved ones of the 16 persons who lost their lives. That tragedy touched us all and left a deep wound in the hearts of many across Serbia and beyond. On this sad anniversary, we appeal to everyone to mourn the victims in a dignified and peaceful manner.
Respect for fundamental rights and values, including freedom of peaceful assembly and media freedom are key EU values that must be protected and upheld by all. We appeal to everyone to act with restraint, to deescalate tensions and to avoid violence.
The European Union and its Member States remain a steadfast partner to Serbia and its people. Our shared objective is to help Serbia move forward on its EU path through dialogue, mutual respect and concrete progress on key reforms – particularly in the areas of the rule of law, the electoral framework and media freedom – which are essential for a fairer, safer and more resilient Serbia.
