The S&D Group welcomes the decision at today’s intergovernmental conference to open the chapters of the EU's accession negotiations with Serbia on judiciary and fundamental rights, and justice, freedom and security.
 
S&D Group vice-president Knut Fleckenstein MEP said:
 
“I would like to congratulate Serbia. Opening these chapters is well deserved but also overdue. The S&D Group has been calling for these chapters to be opened since the start of the accession negotiations. I am happy that this has finally happened. Serbia will now be able to build a record of accomplishment in all those areas where we have previously expressed concerns, particularly on fundamental rights, the fight against corruption and organised crime, justice and internal security.”
 
Tanja Fajon, S&D vice-president and shadow rapporteur on Serbia added:
 
“I am glad that Croatia has dropped its reservations about opening these chapters. Bilateral issues should not be part of the EU accession negotiations. They should instead be solved between the two countries involved, as was the case between Slovenia and Croatia.
 
“These are some of the most important chapters in the accession talks, primarily in terms of the reforms taking place in Serbia. I hope Serbia will now work hard and continue to view the EU integration process as a way to transform its society for the good of its citizens and particularly its young people."