European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos recently faced a wave of criticism following her meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. Responding to backlash over her social media post about the discussion, she emphasized that diplomacy often requires discretion.
Kos, currently in Slovenia, has been vocal about the values of democracy, solidarity, and the rule of law. In Serbia, however, tens of thousands have been protesting since November, citing the erosion of these very principles under Vučić’s administration. Many were disappointed that Kos met with Vučić shortly after a particularly intense weekend of demonstrations, during which authorities allegedly deployed a controversial sonic weapon against protesters. Her social media post described the meeting as “constructive” but made no mention of the protests, sparking public outcry.
In her first interview with Slovenian Radio-Television, since assuming office, Kos addressed the controversy and discussed the European Union’s stance on the Western Balkans.
A Challenging Mandate
Reflecting on her first 100 days in office, Kos described her role as both demanding and exciting. “Enlargement today is completely different from what it was five years ago,” she said. “Geopolitical shifts, evolving superpower dynamics, and uncertain alliances have reshaped the process. For the first time, we are negotiating with a country at war.”
Kos acknowledged that Ukraine has dominated discussions on EU enlargement but stressed that the Western Balkans remain a priority. “It pains me that the enlargement process in this region has stagnated for so many years. North Macedonia has been a candidate since 2005. If Ukraine’s accession process took as long, negotiations wouldn’t begin until 2045,” she noted.
On Serbia, she admitted that progress toward EU membership has stalled. “My discussion with President Vučić focused on ways to accelerate this process,” she explained. The talks covered electoral and media law reforms, as well as Serbia’s obligations to open the third cluster of accession negotiations. “It’s not just about Serbia. Stability in the Western Balkans, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, is crucial,” she added.
On Diplomatic Communication
Kos acknowledged concerns over her social media post, which critics viewed as overly supportive of Vučić. “It’s impossible to convey the complexity of diplomatic discussions in 280 characters,” she said. “I understand the frustration of Serbian protesters, but in diplomacy, revealing everything can sometimes do more harm than good.”
She emphasized the EU’s strong engagement with Serbian civil society. “We maintain constant communication with NGOs, particularly those facing government pressure. Many wouldn’t survive without EU support, which is why we are increasing funding for them by €16 million through 2027,” she stated. She also pushed back against Vučić’s accusations that the EU is funding organizations working to undermine him. “I made it clear that this is unacceptable,” she said.
Should the EU Take a Stronger Stance?
Asked whether the EU should send a clearer message on Serbia’s democratic backsliding, Kos responded cautiously. “Serbia’s path to the EU is not simple. It has been a candidate since 2014, with long periods of stagnation,” she noted. “While some focus on my tweet, few mention my speech in the European Parliament, where I explicitly praised student protesters and their role in pushing for reforms.”
She acknowledged frustration with the EU’s perceived inaction. “Some suggest we should stop engaging with Vučić. But tell me, who else should we negotiate with in Serbia to keep it on the European path?” she asked. “Right now, there is no prime minister, ministers are inactive, and previous commitments have gone unmet.”
When pressed on whether economic interests, such as Serbia’s lithium reserves, influence EU policy, Kos was firm. “Only the Serbian people can decide who governs their country. The European Commission does not interfere in domestic politics,” she said.
She stressed that economic criteria alone do not determine EU accession. “A country can be an economic powerhouse, but without rule of law, media freedom, and anti-corruption measures, it cannot join the EU,” she asserted.
Is Vučić Given Too Much Leeway?
Asked whether the EU tolerates Vučić’s “stabilocracy” because he ensures regional stability, Kos acknowledged the dilemma. “He is the only Serbian politician we can currently discuss EU accession with. Words are one thing; actions are another. In the coming months, we will see if the commitments he made are fulfilled,” she said.
Would Marta Kos, as a private citizen, have posted something stronger on social media? “I am answering as a commissioner,” she responded.
Trust and the EU’s Role
Kos recognized concerns among Serbian protesters that Slovenia no longer supports Serbia’s EU ambitions. “Trust is critical, both within countries and between them. My job is to build that trust,” she said. “Wherever I go, I make it clear that I am part of their team, not just engaging with governments but also with NGOs and influential women across various sectors.”
Can Serbia Join the EU Under Vučić?
“Serbia can join the EU when its people hold their leaders accountable,” Kos stated. “Civil society is essential to the enlargement process. I trust the Serbian people to steer their country toward EU membership.” / BV
