The Netherlands has declared its intention to block Serbia’s progression toward European Union membership, citing ongoing concerns over the country’s adherence to rule of law standards and its stance on foreign policy alignment. Speaking from Brussels, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp emphasized Serbia’s lack of sufficient progress in key areas required for EU accession.
"We see insufficient progress in the area of the rule of law in Serbia," Veldkamp stated on Monday, following discussions with his EU counterparts. "At the same time, we see insufficient progress in the relationship between Belgrade and Pristina. Serbia also has a clear responsibility there."
Serbia has faced sustained pressure from the EU to improve its democratic institutions, uphold judicial independence, and normalize its relationship with Kosovo. Kosovo declared independence in 2008, but Belgrade has refused to recognize it, maintaining that it remains an autonomous province.
Veldkamp also criticized Serbia for failing to align with EU foreign policy, stating, “Serbia is still not sufficiently aligning its foreign policy with EU foreign policy.” He stressed that further action was necessary, especially when comparing Serbia’s progress with that of other candidate nations.
The Dutch government’s stance aligns with a motion passed unanimously in the Tweede Kamer (Dutch Parliament’s lower house). Left-wing MP Kati Piri (GroenLinks-PvdA) initiated the motion, emphasizing that the EU accession process must be based on "results achieved," particularly in the area of rule of law. The motion was co-supported by VVD MP Thom van Campen, reflecting bipartisan consensus among left-wing and right-wing parties.
Veldkamp underscored that candidate states must meet strict criteria to strengthen the European Union, rather than weaken it. “We must prevent the EU from being weakened by countries that are not ready,” he said, referencing the ongoing concerns over Hungary and Slovakia, where rule of law issues have posed challenges within the bloc.
Serbia first applied for EU membership 15 years ago and was granted candidate status in 2012. Since then, negotiations have progressed slowly, with persistent issues related to governance, judicial independence, and regional relations.
The European Commission’s annual reports assess candidate countries’ reforms and alignment with EU standards. While some candidate nations have shown significant progress in recent years, Serbia’s evaluation highlighted lingering shortcomings.
Veldkamp is expected to push for broader European consensus on Serbia’s accession status at upcoming EU foreign ministers’ meetings. However, he stated the Netherlands would stand alone, if necessary, in opposing Serbia’s advancement.
