OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Linde concludes visit to Serbia, reiterates strong partnership with the country

BELGRADE, 26 May 2021 — OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde, concluded her visit to Serbia yesterday. She reiterated the OSCE’s strong partnership with Serbia in its strategic reform priorities.

“The OSCE is a key platform for dialogue on comprehensive security matters based on shared commitments and principles. All participating States have equal footing and Serbia is an active participating State of the OSCE,” said Linde. “Our common security requires joint efforts to address problems that breed threats to democracy, human rights and the rule of law, economic disparity or inequalities.”

During her visit, Linde met with President Aleksandar Vučić, Prime Minister Ana Brnabić and Foreign Affairs Minister Nikola Selaković. She also met with the international community representatives in the country.

Linde affirmed the Chair’s full support for the country’s reform process. “Serbia has made progress on its democratic reform agenda and the focus now must be on the quality and implementation of reform legislation and incorporating best practices,” said Linde. “The OSCE Mission has been helping Serbia in important achievements, such as bolstering the fight against organized crime, fighting corruption, investing in security sector reform and fostering a pluralistic and safe media environment. That co-operation continues.”   

Linde said that the OSCE Mission to Serbia has a role to play to contribute to regional security and fostering broader stability. “Serbia’s offer of COVID-19 vaccination for citizens of neighbouring countries is praiseworthy.”

CiO Linde met Ivica Dacić, Speaker of the National Assembly and representatives of the Women’s Parliamentary Network. “Political participation of women in Serbia is now at its highest level ever, but much more needs to be done in addressing gender-based violence and discrimination of women in political life. The economic empowerment of women is essential in achieving gender equality, inclusive social development, prosperity and stability for all of society.”

At the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Linde attended the youth roundtable discussion with civil society. “Given the importance of youth and the cross-cutting nature of the challenges facing them, we have to continue investing in them across all of its programmes,” said Linde. “Young people must also remain engaged if they want to affect the development of their community. Civic education can play a significant role in helping young people understand how democratic institutions work.”