European Parliament Slams Serbia’s Spyware Use, Calls for EU Entry Delay
A group of 29 European Parliament representatives has issued a scathing rebuke to the Serbian government over its alleged use of spyware to monitor student activists and opposition figures. The MEPs are demanding that Brussels slow down Serbia’s accession into the European Union until an investigation is completed, citing concerns about democracy and human rights.
At the heart of the controversy is a report from the SHARE Foundation, which revealed that both Pegasus and NoviSpy spyware were found on the phones of Serbian student activists. While the report stopped short of assigning responsibility for the Pegasus infection, evidence pointed to government authorities as the likely perpetrators behind the NoviSpy infections. The MEPs argue that this is a direct attack on democracy, designed to silence opposition voices ahead of upcoming elections.
“This is not a technical glitch; it’s a deliberate state attack on democracy,” the MEPs wrote in their letter to European leaders. “With upcoming elections ahead, Aleksandar Vučić’s regime is using illegal digital surveillance to systematically dismantle political opposition.” The MEPs are calling for an immediate investigation into Serbia’s spyware usage and for EU accession to be made contingent on improvements to rule-of-law accountability.
This move is the latest in a long line of criticisms aimed at the Serbian government over its human rights record. The use of spyware by European Union member states has become increasingly concerning, with recent revelations that even members of the European Parliament’s own committees have been targeted. The MEPs are urging the Commission to take decisive action against Serbia, stating that “appeasement has failed” and that compliance with democratic standards is now a non-negotiable requirement.
The situation raises important questions about the balance between national security and individual freedoms in the digital age. As governments increasingly rely on spyware and other surveillance tools, it’s essential to ensure that these powers are not abused for political purposes. The MEPs’ demands send a clear message: EU accession will not be taken lightly, and member states must demonstrate their commitment to democratic values.
For European citizens, this development serves as a timely reminder of the importance of digital security and online protection. As governments struggle to balance national interests with individual freedoms, it’s essential for individuals to stay informed about emerging threats and take steps to safeguard their personal data.
Source: CyberScoop — 2026-09-04