Dialogue across the political spectrum, judicial independence, free and fair elections, and freedom of the media and of assembly are prerequisites for public trust. These issues were discussed by the Secretary General, Alain Berset, during his official visit to Serbia which concludes today.
"The frank discussions with the President of Serbia, Prime Minister, Foreign and Justice Ministers, as well as the Speaker of the National Assembly and other members of parliament, including opposition parties, with civil society and academic community have helped me gain useful insights of the current situation in the country, " Secretary General said.
Sustained commitment to rule of law and effective implementation of international obligations remains essential for democratic security and Serbia's European path, Berset stressed.
"Trust in democratic institutions is particularly important and goes hand in hand with ensuring free and fair elections," Alain Berset emphasised. "The partial local elections on 29 March will mark an important milestone in Serbian political life. I have suggested that the Serbian authorities invite the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe to observe these elections in order to ensure an objective international assessment. Such observation would serve the interests of all parties concerned".
"Judicial independence is vital for boosting public trust, building strong institutions and pursuing effective anti-corruption policies, and independent expertise reinforces the public confidence," Berset said. "I have welcomed the decision of the Speaker of Parliament to submit the draft amendments to the judiciary laws to the Council of Europe's constitutional expert body, the Venice Commission. It will issue an urgent opinion in the next few weeks and is expected to consult relevant interlocutors in Serbia during the preparation process."
The Council of Europe remains ready to support Serbia's reforms in judicial independence, anti-corruption, anti-discrimination, anti-money laundering, cybercrime, pluralism and independence of media and AI governance, Alain Berset stressed.
The visit was an opportunity for exchanges with students, including from the Belgrade University's Faculty of Law, and with civil society representatives in the framework of the preparations for the New Democratic Pact for Europe, a pioneering initiative of the Council of Europe aimed at revitalising democracy.
Alain Berset praised the dedication and courage of the Serbian civil society: "A vibrant civil society is essential for reforms and for ensuring that citizens' voices are heard."
In his interaction with students, Secretary General stressed the importance of young people following and questioning the work of institutions. " This is exactly the kind of engagement the New Democratic Pact seeks to strengthen", he said.
As part of the visit, the Secretary General also met with the staff of the Council of Europe Office in Belgrade, as well as representatives of the international community in Serbia.
Secretary General Alain Berset
Serbia and the Council of Europe
