Diplomats Seek Intervention from the Union Regarding Controversial Belgrade Election
Over 20 Leading European Politicians Urge Ursula von der Leyen to Scrutinize Serbian Election for Fraud”
In a letter disclosed by POLITICO, more than twenty prominent European foreign affairs leaders have appealed to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to examine the alleged fraud in Serbia’s December election. The letter, also addressed to key figures of the bloc including European Council President Charles Michel and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, calls for an independent investigation into the reported electoral discrepancies and fraud claims.
This request follows the aftermath of Serbia’s controversial election, where President Aleksandar Vučić, known for his illiberal stance, secured his position, sparking widespread protests in Belgrade with thousands claiming the election was rigged.
The letter, signed by 24 key figures including Michael Roth, head of the German parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, and his French counterpart Jean-Louis Bourlanges, urges the EU to conduct an independent inquiry into the fraud claims surrounding Serbia’s elections and to provide guidelines for ensuring future elections in Serbia are free and fair.
These signatories, predominantly leaders of foreign or European affairs committees in their respective national parliaments, represent a diverse group from across the EU, including countries like France, Italy, Denmark, and Luxembourg. Additionally, representatives from Ukraine, Moldova, and the U.K. are among the signers.
They suggest that, based on the investigation’s results, there might be a need for new elections in Serbia. Emphasizing their collective aspiration, they express a desire to see Serbia join the European Union within this decade. This call for investigation coincides with von der Leyen’s preparation for an expanded EU, potentially exceeding 30 members.
Presently, the EU comprises 27 member states, but recently commenced accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova. Other nations, such as Serbia, Georgia, and various Western Balkan states, are in different phases of the EU accession process.