The National Convention on the European Union strongly condemns the publication of articles by pro-government tabloids that falsely and maliciously link the Youth Initiative for Human Rights, a member of the NCEU, to the vandalization of monuments in Belgrade. These articles are part of a broader campaign of discreditation against civil society in Serbia, which has intensified and culminated over the past year.
Numerous civil society organisations in Serbia have been subjected to similar attacks, clearly demonstrating the lack of political will for Serbia to make genuine progress on its path towards European Union membership, a process in which the role and importance of the free and independent operation of civil society are explicitly recognised.
We recall that the role of civil society is to act as a legitimate corrective to those in power and a constructive partner in reform processes. However, this role can only be fulfilled if conditions exist for its free and unhindered work. Therefore, once again, we call on all competent state authorities to ensure full protection and freedom of action for civil society organisations.
Source: NCEU
