Media: "And now something about the EU'"

The media say that in Brussels they are likely aware of such polling data, which is why EU officials often criticize Serbian authorities for not doing enough to promote European values and the importance the EU would have for Serbia.

Such criticism from Brussels is described as hypocritical, considering the way EU bureaucrats treat Serbia. Citizens in Serbia are said to be aware that the last major EU enlargement to the east was primarily political in nature. It is widely known in Serbia that Romania and Bulgaria were at a relatively low level of economic development at the time of accession, and are still among the poorer EU member states.

There are also claims of selective admissions. Cyprus is mentioned, including its division and the status of its northern part, while Ukraine is cited as another example, as it is a country affected by war and does not control all of its territory, yet is discussed as a future candidate.

The text also refers to what it describes as constantly changing conditions imposed on Serbia.

It further mentions several EU officials, including Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, who is criticized in the article for her stance toward Serbian authorities and for alleged connections to opposition groups. It references a claim about a temporary suspension of €1.5 billion in EU funds, which was later reportedly denied, but still caused reactions in regional media.

The article also mentions Tonino Picula, the EU rapporteur for Serbia, referring to his past military service during the Croatian war and criticizing his political stance toward Serbia.

Finally, it refers to Ursula von der Leyen and past controversies related to vaccine procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The conclusion of the text is that Serbian authorities are making efforts to meet EU requirements, but that citizens do not see sufficient progress, which is reflected in the polling results.