Statement of the Multisectoral Working Group for Monitoring the Implementation of the Reform Agenda of the Republic of Serbia

Representatives of the National Convention on the EU participated in the first meeting of the Monitoring Committee for the Reform and Growth Instrument, a mechanism that could provide Serbia with up to €1.6 billion in EU funds by 2027 — but only based on implemented and measurable reforms outlined in the Reform Agenda.

The Convention requested full participation in the Committee’s work, including voting rights and the ability to express dissenting opinions. An Intersectoral Working Group was established to monitor the implementation of reforms and to inform the public about progress and challenges.

The first meeting focused on the following areas: business environment, green and digital transition, human capital, and rule of law. The Convention criticized the practice of using reforms as a pretext for adopting regulations that distance Serbia from the EU — specifically highlighting changes to criminal legislation that undermine human rights.

The Convention insisted on transparency and the inclusion of civil society throughout the process, along with the right to comment on government reports before they are reviewed by the European Commission.

Participation in this mechanism does not imply the Convention’s return to other government-led processes where there are no conditions for genuine democratic influence.