Loucas Fourlas, MEP Chair of the EU Delegation to the Serbia-EU Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee

Unity and democracy are the only answers to any problems and challenges. Calmness, dialogue and respect for democracy — this is what Serbia needs, this is what the Balkans need and this is what Europe wants ~ Loucas Fourlas

Speaking in this exclusive CorD interview, Cypriot MEP Loucas Fourlas analyses the challenges facing negotiations between Serbia and the EU, noting that a joint declaration wasn’t adopted following mid-February’s two-day meeting of the EU-Serbia Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee (PSC) in Strasbourg, but also his determination to continue strengthening the dialogue. He discusses the significance of Serbia’s student protests as an indicator of social tension, the country’s role in ensuring the stability of the Western Balkans, and the need to strengthen regional cooperation.

Following the recent meeting of the EU-Serbia PSC, what are your key takeaways regarding the current state of EU-Serbia relations?

— Serbia is at a critical crossroads, where political stability and its European path are intertwined. The recent meeting of the EU-Serbia Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee reaffirmed both the challenges and opportunities of EU-Serbia relations. While the accession process is progressing, further efforts are needed in key areas like the rule of law, media freedom and democratic governance. Serbia has made significant strides, but alignment with EU foreign policy, particularly on sanctions, remains a critical issue.

The EU remains committed to supporting reforms and strengthening dialogue with Serbia to ensure that its European path continues to advance smoothly. Europe and Serbia must share a common path. Unity and democracy are the only answers to any problems and challenges. Calmness, dialogue and respect for democracy – this is what Serbia needs, the Balkans need, and Europe wants. I would like to emphasise that Serbia needs Europe, and Europe needs Serbia.

What consequences could the fact that a joint declaration wasn’t adopted have when it comes to future dialogue? What could be the next steps for your delegation in overcoming these disagreements?

— The failure to adopt a joint declaration shows that there are still significant disagreements that need to be addressed through constructive dialogue. However, this shouldn’t be seen as a failure, but rather as an indication that further cooperation and sincere exchanges of views are required. I wasn’t discouraged by the fact that the resolution didn’t pass, rather it made me even more determined, as Chair, to bring Serbia closer to Europe, and not to push it further away. My personal positions have been reflected through my vote and my amendments.

While the accession process is progressing, further efforts are needed in key areas like the rule of law, media freedom and democratic governance

The European Parliament Delegation will continue working to bridge the differences, encouraging Serbia to focus on required reforms. The upcoming meetings should focus on clarifying key issues and strengthening the political will for compromise, always within the framework of European principles and values. Serbia is moving in the right direction, towards ultimately being embraced by the EU. After all, Belgrade knows that the sooner it aligns fully with accession criteria, the sooner it will become a full member of the European family. The continuation of this European direction is required, with an emphasis on the rule of law and alignment with the EU’s security policy, which itself still has a long way to go to be fully integrated.

The recent student protests in Serbia have highlighted concerns over democratic governance, electoral transparency and corruption. How does the European Parliament view these protests, and could they influence the perception of Serbia as an EU membership candidate country?

— The student protests in Serbia are a clear indication of public concern regarding democratic governance, electoral transparency and the fight against corruption. The European Parliament supports the right to peaceful protest and believes that civil society voices must be heard. These developments impact the perception of Serbia’s progress as a candidate country and highlight the need to intensify reforms. Addressing these concerns with transparency and dialogue will strengthen Serbia’s democratic trajectory and its European perspective.

I have on many occasions emphasised in the Europe an Parliament that Serbia’s EU accession is a geopolitical necessity. There are objective difficulties, and both Belgrade and Brussels are aware of them. I believe both sides must recognise the efforts being exerted and contribute practically to the dynamics of the country’s accession process. Now is the time for decisive action. Clear and firm harmonisation steps are required from Belgrade, and these are the steps that will soon bring the country to the EU’s doorstep.

Considering the evolving political landscape in the Western Balkans, how do you view Serbia’s role in promoting regional stability? What more can be done to encourage stronger cooperation between Serbia and its neighbours within the EU integration framework?

— Serbia plays a crucial role in ensuring the stability of the Western Balkans, as its stance impacts regional dynamics significantly. Strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries through dialogue, economic connectivity and conflict resolution is essential to regional cohesion. The EU can support this process through funding mechanisms, enhancing regional integration and encouraging compliance with European standards. Serbia’s commitment to good neighbourly relations will be critical on its path to EU membership.

I wasn’t discouraged by the fact that the resolution didn’t pass, rather it made me even more determined, as Chair, to bring Serbia closer to Europe, and not to push it further away

In a recent debate in the Plenary of the European Parliament, I mentioned that developments in Serbia also impact its neighbours directly, touching the entire Balkan region. A prime example of this is the Union of 27 itself, which has proven that synergies and partnerships can form the basis for peace, stability and prosperity. No country acting alone, and no other partnership, has achieved as much as the EU in countless areas. These partnerships have made us a global force to be reckoned with. The key for Serbia to overcome its challenges thus lies in its clear strategic orientation. Once this is in place, progress will come much faster and tackling challenges will become simpler.

In light of current geopolitical challenges and the war in Ukraine, how would you assess Serbia’s position within the broader European context? Do you believe the EU should redefine its enlargement strategy to accelerate the integration of the Western Balkans, including Serbia, into the Union?

— The geopolitical reality shaped by the war in Ukraine makes it clear that stability and alignment with European values are more important than ever. Serbia’s position within the broader European context depends on its commitment to European principles, including foreign policy alignment and sanctions. The EU must adapt its strategy to offer clearer incentives and timelines for the Western Balkans, while ensuring that enlargement continues to be driven by values and reform. The further EU enlargement that’s expected in the coming years will undoubtedly strengthen its international presence and influence. However, it is clear that there is a problem, one that we have identified and highlighted many times.

I firmly believe that a Union made up of even more members will be stronger, but it will stand on shaky ground if it lacks a common foreign policy. This is something no one wants.