Sweden decides to suspend certain forms of support for Serbian state - European Western Balkans

Sweden Suspends Certain Support to Serbian State

On 3 November 2025, the Government of Sweden declared it will discontinue parts of its support to Serbian state authorities. Instead, assistance will shift toward empowering civil society in Serbia.

Reason for Suspension

The Swedish Government expressed concern over recent developments in Serbia, highlighting increasing corruption and a failure to uphold rule of law principles.

“This applies to everything from growing corruption to the failure to uphold the principles of the rule of law. Countries cannot expect Swedish support if they do not deliver the reforms and development that we expect. That is why we are now making these changes,” said Benjamin Dousa, Minister of Development Assistance and Foreign Trade.

Concerns About Serbian Government

Sweden has been closely monitoring Serbia’s progress and observed a lack of commitment to reform, especially related to upholding the rule of law, combating corruption, and protecting fundamental freedoms including freedom of expression and press.

“This applies in particular to the work to uphold the principles of the rule of law, to combat corruption and to protect fundamental freedoms and rights such as freedom of expression and the press,” the Swedish Government stated.

Policy Change

This move reflects Sweden’s insistence on democratic reforms and accountability as prerequisites for international aid.

Author’s summary: Sweden halts some support to Serbia’s government, redirecting aid to civil groups due to concerns over corruption and weakening rule of law commitments.

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European Western Balkans European Western Balkans — 2025-11-05

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