EU expresses concern over disruption of parliamentary work in Serbia

The European Union has voiced serious concern over recent disruptions and violence in Serbia’s parliament, calling on all stakeholders to engage in an inclusive dialogue.

In a statement on X, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said, “We are very concerned by the disruptions of parliamentary work and the violence in the Serbian parliament. The parliament must be the place for democratic debate in the interest of all citizens, and must fully play its role.”

The commissioner stressed that developments targeting civil society organizations are particularly alarming. “We have been consistently calling for de-escalation of tensions, by establishing conditions for an inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders, including political actors, institutions and members of civil society to address reforms necessary for Serbia’s EU future,” Kos added.

The disturbances erupted during a session that was set to discuss the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic and a proposed law on higher education. According to Radio Television of Serbia (RTS), three lawmakers were injured during the ensuing clash between opposition and ruling party members. Parliament President Ana Brnabic reported that an eight-month-pregnant lawmaker sustained injuries, while another suffered serious injuries after being pepper-sprayed and struck with a bottle. Additionally, one lawmaker, allegedly hit by a stun grenade, suffered a stroke and is in critical condition.

Tensions escalated when opposition lawmakers attempted to approach President Brnabic but were blocked by security, sparking further chaos. Video footage captured opposition members lighting torches and throwing smoke bombs—filling the assembly hall with red, black, and white smoke—while some MPs resorted to throwing water bottles, egg cartons, and using pepper spray. In the wake of the turmoil, two lawmakers reportedly submitted their resignations.

The incident has deepened the political crisis in Serbia, already marked by months-long anti-corruption protests and public discontent with the current government. EU officials and local observers alike have called for a de-escalation of tensions and the restoration of calm in the parliamentary process.

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