The European Parliament has adopted a resolution condemning Serbia for escalating repression, corruption, and threats to democratic institutions amid ongoing protests and violence.

The resolution marks the first anniversary of the Novi Sad canopy tragedy, criticizing the government's obstruction of justice, and condemning violence against protesters, journalists, and opposition figures.

It calls for full, transparent investigations into the 2024 Novi Sad railway station canopy collapse, highlighting concerns over potential misuse of EU funds by Chinese companies and increased Chinese influence in Serbia's infrastructure projects.

The resolution urges Serbia to implement OSCE and ODIHR recommendations for free and fair elections, including independent audits and media access, while demanding transparency in infrastructure negotiations with China.

Protesters, sparked by the Novi Sad incident and broader issues of corruption and opaque dealings, have faced violent repression, with police brutality, mass arrests, and the use of tear gas and sonic weapons documented by independent monitors.

There are serious concerns over attacks on independent journalists, government smear campaigns, and arbitrary arrests, with President Vučić's government accused of undermining media freedom and spreading disinformation.

Investigations into unlawful surveillance using spyware like Pegasus are ongoing, amid reports of intrusive monitoring of activists and journalists.

The resolution condemns obstruction of justice, retaliation against educators and cultural workers, and illegal counter-protests linked to criminal mobilization, calling for transparency and accountability.

Mass protests, the largest in Serbian history with over 10,000 demonstrations across 630 locations, have demanded justice, transparency, free elections, and media freedom, with the government criticized for its handling of the crisis.

EU members express concern over Serbia's declining support for EU accession, regional instability, and external influences from Russia and China, urging Serbia to align more closely with EU policies.

EU officials criticize Serbia's close ties with Russia and China, disinformation campaigns, and inconsistent foreign policy, urging Belgrade to prioritize transparency and EU alignment.

The European People's Party attempted to soften parts of the resolution, but it remains largely critical of Serbia's current government policies.

The European Parliament emphasizes that Serbia's path out of its crisis depends on holding free elections, strengthening the rule of law, fighting corruption, and aligning with Western European policies.