Representing a significant setback for Belgrade’s ambition to join the European Union, EU ambassadors gathered in Brussels on Wednesday were unable to reach a consensus regarding Serbia’s accession process.

During the session involving European Union ambassadors, three EU diplomats confirmed to Euronews that eight out of the 27 member states opposed initiating a new round of accession negotiations with Serbia.

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The countries opposing the activation of Cluster 3—focused on competitiveness and inclusive growth—include the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Belgium, Estonia, Lithuania, Bulgaria, and Croatia.

Denmark, Luxembourg, and Latvia expressed reservations without outright opposition, whereas France remains a key advocate for Serbia’s accession.

French President Emmanuel Macron has previously emphasized the necessity of having a “strong and democratic Serbia” within the EU.

Pro-accession member states highlight concerns about the consequences of further isolating the Western Balkans nation and the importance of acknowledging its reform efforts.

‘Double standards’

Serbia officially applied for EU membership in 2009 and was designated as an official candidate in 2012. Since then, 22 negotiation chapters have opened, two of which have been provisionally closed.

The unanimous endorsement of the EU’s 27 member states is mandatory to begin or conclude any thematic negotiation clusters.

Former Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić criticized allegations of her country’s pro-Russian stance, affirming to Euronews that Serbia supports Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion, while denouncing what she called “double standards” in EU accession.

A spokesperson from the European Commission informed Euronews on Monday that a document justifying why recent Serbian measures warrant the opening of Cluster 3 was shared with all EU countries on that day.

According to the document reviewed by Euronews, Serbia has fulfilled key obligations addressing member states’ concerns, including repealing contentious judicial law amendments and advancing media freedom, electoral reforms, and cooperation on foreign and security policies with the EU.

Although Serbia has not yet aligned with EU sanctions against Russia, the Commission acknowledged its cooperation in preventing sanctions evasion, substantial assistance to Ukraine, and the intensification of high-level political contacts with Kyiv.

Yet, the document stresses that work remains, particularly regarding judicial reform and the prosecutorial system.

Wednesday’s meeting aimed to ascertain whether EU capitals share this assessment.

‘Positive developments’

One EU diplomat, speaking anonymously to Euronews, indicated that the opposition from the eight member states largely stems from Serbia’s ongoing issues with the rule of law and failure to align with sanctions.

Another diplomat noted that several countries agreed with the Commission’s optimistic evaluation, stating Serbia “has met” or is “on track” to meet the requirements for advancing with Cluster 3.

Multiple senior EU officials have publicly backed initiating Cluster 3, particularly following Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s reversal of controversial judicial amendments in June, following recommendations from the Venice Commission.

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos stands out among the principal supporters.

“Considering recent positive advancements, the Commission has renewed its recommendation to the Council to open Cluster 3 in the accession negotiations with Serbia,” Kos declared on Tuesday during a debate about Serbia’s accession at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

“The Commission will continue to promote further reforms to benefit all Serbian citizens and the wider society.”

‘All the demands from the European Union’

On the same day, Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg overwhelmingly approved Serbia’s 2025 enlargement report, with 468 votes in favor, 116 against, and 79 abstentions.

The Commission’s report contains recommendations to improve election procedures, strengthen judicial institutions, and combat corruption. It also reiterates that Cluster 3 is technically ready for opening.

Croatian MEP Tonino Picula, rapporteur of the report and member of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, noted at a post-vote press conference that the country’s situation has “deteriorated” over recent years.

He pointed out that reforms have stalled and the pace has slowed down.

“While the European Union is gaining new momentum with Montenegro and Albania advancing in accession talks, Serbia’s EU-related reforms have largely paused in crucial areas, especially concerning the rule of law and democratic standards,” he stated.

When asked why the European Parliament’s conclusions differ from the Commission’s recommendation to open Cluster 3, Picula expressed curiosity.

“Our report is based on multiple assessments and points derived from Commission reports. Thus, it remains unclear where the Commission perceives progress,” he responded.

Following last year’s report publication, Vučić defended Serbia’s commitment to reform efforts.

“All remarks and demands from the European Union must be considered,” Vučić commented at the time, adding, “Serbia is deeply committed to its EU path and approaches it with seriousness and responsibility.”