The European Commission is renewing its efforts to advance Serbia's bid for European Union membership by pushing for the opening of accession Cluster 3. The Commission argues that Belgrade has made sufficient progress on key reforms, including in foreign policy alignment, the rule of law, and electoral legislation, to justify this step. An information note presented to EU ambassadors highlights Serbia's implementation of commitments, such as repealing controversial judicial law amendments and progress in media freedom and electoral reforms. The Commission also acknowledges Serbia's cooperation in countering sanctions circumvention against Russia and its support for Ukraine, despite Belgrade not aligning with EU sanctions against Moscow.
However, the Commission's assessment is likely to face opposition from several EU member states. These capitals remain concerned about broader issues such as democratic backsliding, judicial independence, and the overall rule of law in Serbia. The opening of Cluster 3 has been a point of contention since it was first proposed in 2021, with ongoing concerns over Serbia's foreign policy alignment and the normalization of relations with Kosovo.
The Commission's note concedes that Serbia's work is not complete, stating that further efforts are required in the judicial and prosecutorial systems. Despite these remaining challenges, the Commission believes that the overall balance necessary for opening Cluster 3 in July 2026 is currently ensured.
