The European Parliament has called for significant reforms in Kosovo and Serbia as both countries pursue their aspirations for European Union membership.

In reports adopted on Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) evaluated the progress of each nation in their EU integration efforts for 2023 and 2024.

For Kosovo, MEPs recognized improvements in electoral reforms, economic resilience, and the protection of fundamental rights.

However, they emphasized ongoing challenges, particularly in judicial reforms, media freedom, public administration efficiency, and the digitalization of public services.

MEPs stressed that a sustained commitment to comprehensive reforms and inclusive governance is essential for Kosovo’s progress on its European integration pathway.

The reports noted a lack of substantial outcomes in the Pristina-Belgrade dialogue and urged both parties to adhere to the Brussels and Ohrid agreements.

This includes the establishment of the Association/Community of Serb-Majority Municipalities and the retraction of Serbia’s opposition to Kosovo’s membership in regional and international organizations.

Moreover, MEPs expressed concerns about foreign interference and disinformation efforts aimed at destabilizing the region, particularly from Russia and China.

They called upon the Kosovo government to enhance its capacity to address such challenges.

The vote concluded with 353 favorable votes, 145 against, and 78 abstentions, signaling a majority support for the report.

In discussions surrounding Serbia, MEPs pointed out significant challenges that remain in the EU accession process.

They urged Serbia to enhance internal political dialogue, protect the rule of law, and implement anti-corruption reforms.

Notably, the need for a comprehensive normalization agreement with Kosovo and alignment with EU foreign policy were highlighted.

MEPs called for the independence of key institutions, including those regulating media, and emphasized the importance of fulfilling outstanding recommendations from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) and the Council of Europe concerning electoral reforms ahead of upcoming elections.

Concerns were raised regarding incidents of violence against students and increased pressure on educators supporting student activism.

The report called for thorough investigations into recent controversies, including the incident at Novi Sad train station and alleged abuses of crowd control technologies.

The vote to adopt the report on Serbia passed with 419 in favor, 113 against, and 88 abstentions, reflecting a strong mandate for the identified areas of improvement.