Serbian Pro‑EU Platform Accuses Ruling Party of Legal Deception

A coalition of pro‑European parties and movements in Serbia, organized under the Platforma za evropsku Srbiju, has sent a letter to European Union institutions alleging that the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) submitted two different versions of justice reform laws – one to the Venice Commission and a second, containing undisclosed provisions, to the Serbian parliament. The platform claims this tactic is intended to extend the effect of the so‑called “Mrdić” laws and to undermine the independence of the judiciary.

The ministries involved rejected the accusation, with Justice Minister Nenad Vujić stating that the only difference between the texts is the language used in the parliamentary version. In response, the platform reiterated its criticism, saying, “This is a clear indication that the SNS has no intention to relinquish control over the judiciary for the sake of its criminal‑state interests.”

Earlier, the same coalition met in Belgrade to formalize the Platform, adopting participation criteria that emphasize commitment to Serbia’s EU accession, rule of law, anti‑corruption measures, free media, and respect for fundamental rights. The group also called for a genuine pro‑EU political alternative to the current government.