Illegal use of spyware in Serbia

Subject: Illegal use of spyware in Serbia

A recent report by Amnesty International entitled ‘A Digital Prison: surveillance and the suppression of civil society in Serbia’ has revealed that Serbian authorities have engaged in widespread illegal surveillance practices by using spyware against activists, journalists and members of civil society.

These alarming revelations emerge at a time when Serbia is witnessing its largest protests in decades, fuelled by growing concerns over widespread corruption and the increasing authoritarianism of its government.

1. Is the Commission aware of the reported use of spyware and abuse of digital forensic tools targeting activists and journalists in Serbia and what steps, if any, has it taken so far?

2. What further actions, if any, is the Commission considering in response to these allegations and do these include the possibility of calling for an independent investigation and ensuring accountability?

3. To the Commission’s knowledge, has the EU been involved in the procurement of any equipment – such as forensic tools, software or other technologies – for Serbian institutions or agencies in the security sector that could potentially be misused to undermine or threaten human rights? If so, could it provide details on the EU’s involvement and specify which tools or technologies were procured?

Submitted: 13.2.2025

Answer given by Ms Kos on behalf of the European Commission

(16 April 2025)

The Commission is aware of reports of alleged illegal use of spyware against civil society representatives and journalists in Serbia.

Any attempt to illegally access the data and communication of citizens in general and of civil society activists/representatives and journalists in particular is unacceptable, if confirmed.

The European Media Freedom Act generally forbids the use of intrusive surveillance software to get information from journalists and strictly limits any exceptional use.

In the EU, the investigation of such issues is the responsibility of each Member State and the Commission expects national authorities to thoroughly examine any such allegations to restore citizen’s trust.

These principles also apply to Serbia, a candidate country which has committed to align with the EU acquis and European standards and values.

As underlined in 2024 Enlargement Package (1), civil society organisations in Serbia operate in a difficult environment and Serbia is expected to ensure a truly enabling environment for civil society and media.

The Commission supports Serbia in implementing the EU-accession related reforms, which include also better migration management, border protection and fight against organised crime.

In this context, IT equipment, drones, registration equipment for migration management, and other technical solutions have been provided.

The Commission is not aware that these tools would be used for a different purpose than intended. They are essential for combatting serious and organised crime in line with Serbian legislation and European and international standards.

The Commission will continue to closely monitor developments Serbia and continue raising these issues with the authorities.

1 ∙ ⸱ https://enlargement.ec.europa.eu/2024-communication-eu-enlargement-policy_en | | ( | | )