On May 22, 2026, Commissioner Michael O'Flaherty completed a visit to Serbia from May 18-21, where he assessed the current state of human rights in the country. O'Flaherty's observations included an alarming deterioration in freedoms surrounding media and peaceful assembly, noting an increase in government intolerance toward dissenting voices.

O'Flaherty emphasized the importance of protecting civic space, stating, “Recent actions against journalists and peaceful protesters suggest a troubling trend that threatens freedom of expression in Serbia.” He pointed out that there have been numerous reports of harassment and violence against journalists, indicating a significant climate of fear and intimidation.

Amid ongoing political unrest, O'Flaherty advocated for the government's obligation to respect and uphold human rights as outlined in the European Convention on Human Rights. He called upon Serbian authorities to ensure that laws protecting fundamental freedoms are effectively implemented and to foster an environment where civil society can operate without fear.

During his visit, O'Flaherty held meetings with various civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and government officials to discuss these pressing issues. He underscored that genuine dialogue is critical for improving human rights conditions and urged the government to engage constructively with civic groups.

This visit comes at a time when Serbia faces scrutiny from international bodies regarding its commitment to human rights, particularly concerning freedom of the press and the treatment of protesters. The Commissioner’s report is likely to prompt further discussions within the Council of Europe and among EU member states regarding Serbia's adherence to human rights standards.

The findings from O'Flaherty's visit signal a call to action for both Serbian leaders and European stakeholders to address these fundamental issues, ensuring that citizens' rights are protected in accordance with international norms.