The European Commission’s biannual non-paper on the state of the rule of law in Montenegro and Serbia notes problems on the judicial track record, judiciary independence, and freedom of expression. The report states that the legislative changes for the success of the rule of law reform in Montenegro must be prepared following European standards, best practice, and the Venice Commission’s recommendations in a broad and inclusive consultation process. It stresses the need for a conducive environment to media freedom, refrained journalists’ pressures, and fulfillment of the interim benchmarks for Chapters 23 and 24. In Serbia, pressure on the judiciary and prosecution are noted. Regarding the fight against corruption, the report recalls the Group of States Against Corruption (GRECO), according to which, the shortcomings prevail the success in this area. Government officials’ hate speech, smear campaigns, and violence against journalists remain a challenge, as well. Read more here.
Source: European Western Balkans