Key findings from relevant reports examined in context

The International Election Observation Mission led by ODIHR published its preliminary findings on the 25 October early parliamentary elections. The mission noted high turnout and vigorous competition, but found that the equality of campaign opportunities was seriously compromised by the misuse of state resources, pressure on voters and public-sector employees, and pronounced media bias in favour of "United Serbia". It also concluded that priority ODIHR recommendations remain unaddressed, that the authorities did not explain voter register discrepancies, and that election disputes were not consistently resolved through effective legal remedies.

After a two-day visit to Belgrade, the PACE pre-electoral delegation headed by Piero Fassino assessed that the campaign for the 25 October elections is taking place in a highly polarized environment that could undermine a level playing field. It noted that the May amendments to electoral laws did not sufficiently address ODIHR and Venice Commission recommendations, pointed to hostile rhetoric against opposition activists, civil society and journalists, and warned of a serious risk of disenfranchising voters abroad. PACE will deploy a full observation mission.

The Delegation of the European Union to Serbia issued a statement on the campaign for the 25 October early parliamentary elections, stating that free, fair and transparent elections are required for Serbia to advance towards EU membership. It listed a level playing field, equal access to the media and a clear separation of state and party among the conditions, recalled long-standing ODIHR recommendations, called on the media regulator to act on violations, and expressed concern over several reported incidents of violence.