AGP Executive Report

Media Freedom Clash: BIRN Montenegro executive Vuk Maras was barred from entering Serbia at Belgrade airport, calling it a “protective removal” and linking it to reciprocal bans involving media figures. Parliament & Media Rules: Serbia’s National Assembly opened an extraordinary session with 18 items, including new electoral-law amendments and an interpretation of REM rules that could overturn the November 2025 resignations of four council members. Local Governance & Transparency: A Belgrade-area citizen initiative pushes to curb town spending and boost transparency, including limits on tax hikes and more clarity on how votes affect property taxes. Public Transport Financial Stress: Belgrade’s GSP faces an account freeze risk as suppliers claim up to 6 billion dinars in unpaid debts, with lawsuits and forced collection looming. Public Finance Watch: Serbia’s debt looks “moderate,” but interest costs are among Europe’s highest, raising pressure to control borrowing. EU Path: The Netherlands opposes opening EU Cluster 3 for Serbia over rule-of-law concerns, joined by several other member states. Sports & Society: Wimbledon headlines keep rolling for Novak Djokovic, while World Cup football commentary faces renewed scrutiny over racially coded language.

EU Accession Pressure: The Netherlands says it won’t back opening EU “Cluster 3” for Serbia, citing rule-of-law concerns and warning the move wouldn’t be merit-based; it joins other skeptics including the Baltics and Sweden. EU Path & Stability Pitch: Foreign Minister Marko Đurić told Brussels Serbia is intensifying EU efforts, arguing integration would bring more regional stability and help curb ethno-nationalism. Road Funding: Serbia redirected 1.174 billion dinars from budget reserves to keep building the Raca–Bijeljina highway, with completion targets still tied to October. Minority Rights Implementation: Serbia set up a coordination body to monitor its 2026–2029 minority rights action plan, aiming for real changes in education, jobs and discrimination. Diaspora Voting Worry (Bosnia): Bosnia’s election commission says only a small share of citizens abroad have registered to vote, raising concerns ahead of Oct. 4 polls. Sports (Serbian angle): Novak Djokovic faced a scary Wimbledon disqualification scare after a ball hit the umpire’s chair, while his physical strain and age remain a big storyline.

EU Path Blocked: The Netherlands says it won’t support opening EU accession Cluster 3 for Serbia, citing rule-of-law concerns and Serbia’s refusal to sanction Russia. Highway Funding: Serbia’s Finance Ministry rerouted about 1.174 billion dinars from budget reserves to keep building the Raca–Bijeljina highway. Environment & Migration: Government adopted a Draft Law on Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control, including digitalized permit issuance, plus a new Migration Profile for 2025. Energy & Tech: EPS joined the Data Center Association of Serbia, while Vinca Institute and FTN move ahead on a “Nuclear Energy Systems” master’s program. Business Moves: Energoprojekt Holding faces a forced buyout after a state-linked owner crossed 90% stake; Air Serbia hit two million passengers in under six months. Sports Spotlight: Novak Djokovic equalled Roger Federer’s Wimbledon record with a 105th win, while Jannik Sinner advanced too. Football Transfer Watch: Rangers opened talks with Partizan over Vanja Dragojevic, with a reported £3.8m bid.

Wimbledon Milestone: Novak Djokovic matched Roger Federer’s Wimbledon record with a 105th men’s singles win, beating France’s Arthur Rinderknech 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6, and next faces Roman Safiullin. EU Talks Blocked: The Netherlands says it won’t support opening Serbia’s EU Cluster 3 over rule-of-law concerns, with at least five EU states reportedly opposing the move. Environment & Industry: Serbia’s government adopted a Draft Law on Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control, aiming to simplify and digitize integrated permit procedures and boost transparency. Energy & Tech: EPS joined the Data Center Association of Serbia, while the Vinca Institute and FTN are preparing a “Nuclear Energy Systems” master’s program. Business Watch: The state-backed Energoprojekt stake sale pushed ownership past 90%, triggering a forced buyout and paving the way for delisting. Aviation & Travel: Air Serbia hit two million passengers in under six months, with new routes and a loyalty program rollout. Local Life: Belgrade’s Kiwanis Club hosts a free car show on Sunday on Broadway.

Wimbledon Spotlight: Novak Djokovic kept Serbia’s flag flying at Wimbledon, equalling Roger Federer’s record of 105 men’s singles wins after beating France’s Arthur Rinderknech 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6(4) to reach the fourth round. He’ll face Russian qualifier Roman Safiullin next. Sports Buzz: Defending champion Jannik Sinner also advanced, beating Jenson Brooksby 6-4, 6-3, 6-4, setting up a potential Djokovic-Sinner clash later. Media & Society: A regional study on South-East Europe and Türkiye says social media platforms now act as key gateways to news, shaping what audiences see and how media is regulated. Belgrade Community: Kiwanis Club of Belgrade is hosting a free “Cars on Broadway” show in Belgrade on Sunday, July 5, with registration from 7–9 a.m. Diplomacy: Serbia’s EU path stayed in focus as FM Marko Đurić said the country is “doubling down” on accession and regional stability.

Wimbledon Milestone: Novak Djokovic reached the fourth round at Wimbledon by beating Arthur Rinderknech 7-5, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6, equalling Roger Federer’s record of 105 men’s singles match wins at SW19 and setting up a last-16 clash with Roman Safiullin. EU Path & Diplomacy: Serbian FM Marko Đurić said Serbia is “doubling down” on its EU course and prioritising regional peace and better ties with neighbours, while Serbia’s reform progress was highlighted in Brussels. EXPO 2027 (Regional Business): Serbia signed a contract in Belgrade enabling Bosnia and Herzegovina’s participation in EXPO 2027, underlining the expo as a regional project. Energy Infrastructure: Greece and North Macedonia confirmed the gas interconnector schedule, with completion expected in 2027. Politics & Elections: Serbia’s ruling party signalled autumn parliamentary and presidential elections, tied to President Vučić’s planned resignation. Culture & Events: The Palić European Film Festival is set for July 18–22, with screenings across Palić and Subotica. Local Society: A Montenegrin journalist, Petar Komnenić, was banned from entering Serbia in reciprocal media measures.

Kosovo War Crimes Verdict: A retrial in Pristina found Ekrem Bajrović guilty of beating, torturing and killing ethnic Albanian civilians in 1999, sentencing him to 12 years and ordering payments to victims’ funds. Belgrade Infrastructure: PowerChina has applied for a temporary permit to start works on a planned tunnel link between the Sava and Danube slopes, with expropriations expected to run through 2026-27. Roads Tender: Serbia’s transport ministry announced an international tender for rehabilitation of local roads worth about EUR 281 million (33 billion dinars) across four regions. Aviation Dispute: Wizz Air says there’s still no progress in talks over its Belgrade base, warning Serbia’s regulator could force closure from November. Tech & Society: UNICEF reports at least 20 million children in 10 countries are already using AI, including in Serbia, and warns safeguards lag behind uptake. Culture & City Life: Belgrade plans to repurpose EXPO 2027 prefabricated facilities for gyms, schools and other public needs, and to use Fair Hall 1 for the Philharmonic, opera and cabaret.

Wimbledon Focus: Novak Djokovic surged into the third round with a dominant win over Stefanos Tsitsipas, while Jannik Sinner advanced and Mirra Andreeva was knocked out—setting up more high-stakes Serbian tennis headlines. EU & Politics: European Parliament rapporteur Tonino Picula warned Serbia is entering an even tenser period, citing polarization and pressure on institutions as elections loom. Migration Policy: Serbia’s government adopted the 2025 Migration Profile, aiming to guide migration planning without extra budget costs. Local Labor Protest: Niš residents plan to block an industrial-zone roundabout near the Yura factory on 8 July over reported broken air conditioning and unsafe working conditions. Diplomacy & Expo 2027: Serbia’s president received confirmation that the State of Palestine will participate in EXPO 2027 in Belgrade. Sports Governance: Ireland’s FAI released the motion for its members ahead of a vote on Nations League games against Israel, with Serbia named as the venue for the match. AI & Innovation: Serbia’s foreign minister announced AIability 2026, pitching Belgrade as a hub for responsible AI development.

AI & Innovation: Serbia’s FM Marko Đurić says Belgrade will push responsible AI through the annual “AIability 2026” conference, building on the 2019 AI strategy and 2030 plans, with science diplomacy and youth included. Diplomatic Sports: Đurić also opened the inaugural Diplomatic Sports Games in Belgrade, pitching them as a tradition that strengthens ties through sport ahead of Expo 2027. Politics & Elections: The ruling SNS has formally invited President Aleksandar Vučić to lead its parliamentary list and become prime minister candidate after he pledged to resign within weeks. Belgrade-World Links: Serbia and Chile resumed bilateral political consultations after seven years, covering trade, science, culture, police and defence, and discussing Expo 2027 participation. Serbia in the Spotlight (Sport): Novak Djokovic advanced at Wimbledon after a prank on a ball girl, while Serbia’s presence in the wider sports conversation continues to trend.

Serbia–Chile Diplomacy: Bilateral political consultations resumed after a seven-year gap, with both sides discussing economy, trade, science, culture, police and defence cooperation, plus Expo 2027 and Kosovo positions. Belgrade Governance & Daily Life: Belgrade plans tougher enforcement and possible “no-parking” signage after residents complained about illegal parking near schools and on private property. Kosovo-Metohija: Serbia’s Kosovo-Metohija office says Serbs arrested at Gazimestan on St Vitus’ Day “went through hell,” calling for the truth to be heard and criticizing Pristina’s police. Security & Defence: President Aleksandar Vučić says Serbia will expand its Chinese CM-400 missile stockpile and is moving toward additional fighter jets, despite Western warnings. Energy Sanctions Update: The US extended an OFAC license allowing JANAF to supply feedstock to Serbia’s NIS until July 31. Business & Investment: A Serbia–Japan investment protection deal is set to take effect July 30, with expectations of expanded Japanese investment. Culture & Film: Srđan Dragojević’s new regional coproduction “International Women’s Day / Osmi mart” begins shooting in August, with Latido Films acquiring it. Sports: Novak Djokovic surged at Wimbledon into the third round, while Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanović’s Wimbledon run ended earlier; Belgrade also hosts major community events tied to America 250.

Investigations & Accountability: President Aleksandar Vučić says a new online portal (“Ko Si Ti Bre”) to let citizens report government misconduct with video/audio will go live by the end of the week, aiming to pressure local officials to “think twice.” Energy & Sanctions: The US extended a 30-day sanctions waiver for NIS, Serbia’s Russian-linked oil firm, letting it keep operating and importing crude until July 31 as talks over the Russian stake with MOL continue. Wildlife Crime: Serbia’s eastern imperial eagle “Feliks” has returned home after a kidnapping and illegal trafficking ordeal across borders, highlighting how organized wildlife trade is worsening and how conservation groups fight back. Sports & Culture: Wimbledon continues with Serbian tennis interest in the spotlight (Djokovic’s run and Sinner’s next match), while Serbia also hosts major regional sport logistics—like Ireland’s Nations League game with Israel moved to a Serbian venue behind closed doors. Digital Business: Google expands its Ads sales network by naming Coob Ads an official Google Ads sales representative in Moldova, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia and Uzbekistan, adding to its existing Serbia role.

Extreme Heat in Serbia and Europe: A record-breaking heatwave is still gripping the region, with red alerts in parts of Italy and the Balkans and Serbia forecast to hit around 39C; Belgrade streets were largely deserted as residents limited outdoor time, drank water, and relied on shade and fountains. Animal Trafficking Case: Serbia’s eastern imperial eagle Feliks has returned home after a cross-border kidnapping and illegal sale ordeal tied to profit-driven wildlife trafficking, with rescuers warning the problem is worsening. EU Integration Talks: Serbia’s EU integration minister Nemanja Starović met Austria’s Claudia Bauer in Vienna to discuss reform progress and expectations for opening Cluster 3, plus cooperation around EXPO 2027 Belgrade. Freedom of Information Pressure: A new Western Balkans report says FoI requests are rising but access is still routinely blocked through delays, refusals, and weak enforcement—Serbia is included among the countries studied. Culture in Belgrade: A free concert in Belgrade on 5 July brings together the Children’s Philharmonic and the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra for “Musical Encounter: USA and Serbia.” Sport—Wimbledon Buzz: Serena Williams’ Wimbledon comeback ended in a first-round loss to Maya Joint, while Novak Djokovic advanced and urged rule changes to keep tennis more watchable.

Heatwave Watch: Europe’s record heatwave is easing but still threatens over 95 million people with 35C+ temperatures on Tuesday, with Serbia among the countries expected to feel the worst of the next wave. Election Pressure on Vučić: Serbia’s president is accused of using a new €600mn pre-election aid package and a pensioners-focused address to campaign for parliamentary elections that haven’t been scheduled, as protests continue. Politics Next Move: Vučić says he will step down within weeks and aims to become prime minister, while critics argue the resignation is a strategy to manage the political calendar. Football Corruption Claims: Leaked encrypted chats allege former Serbian FA chief Slaviša Kokeza discussed intimidating or arranging violence against ex-captain Nemanja Vidić after his public criticism. Wimbledon Serbia Spotlight: Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner both advanced after tough first rounds, while Aryna Sabalenka eased past a Serbian qualifier on Centre Court. Wildlife Rescue: Feliks the eastern imperial eagle has returned to Serbia after being kidnapped and illegally traded across the Middle East, rescued via a cross-border operation. Humanitarian Partnership: BingX and Save the Children will support at-risk children in Serbia and Bosnia with cash vouchers and essential aid.

Elections Shake-Up: Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić says early general elections will be held in the next 3–4 months and he will resign ahead of the vote, but critics doubt it’s the end—some expect a return to power as prime minister. Protest Pressure: The announcement comes as student-led and broader street protests continue, with opponents pointing to corruption claims and past tragedies as proof the system needs change. Heatwave Crisis: A record-breaking heatwave is pushing temperatures to dangerous levels across Serbia and the Balkans, with warnings up to around 39°C and wildfire fears rising as Europe’s health systems struggle. Media Freedom Watch: A new EU media monitor flags Serbia as one of the worst performers for journalist safety and working conditions, citing high risks and weak protection. Wimbledon Serbia Spotlight: Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner both advanced on day one, with Sinner surviving a scare against Miomir Kecmanović and Djokovic also winning to keep Serbia’s tennis hopes alive.

Protests & Politics: Serbia’s Aleksandar Vučić says he will resign within weeks, but thousands keep rallying—especially in Kraljevo—fearing he’ll keep power by moving to prime minister or installing an ally. Kosovo Tensions: “Kosovo police” arrested 36 Serbs at the Gazimestan memorial near Pristina, including a minor, after searches and clashes during St Vitus Day commemorations; Serbia’s Kosovo office calls it repression. Heatwave & Wildfires: A record-breaking European heatwave is hitting the Balkans hard, with Serbia warned to reach 39°C and wildfires reported in Serbia and Albania, while Croatia issued red alerts. Belgrade Development: Belgrade Waterfront received a building permit for a residential and business complex on the former BAS site, with 629 apartments and 823 parking spaces. Transport & Infrastructure: Serbia formed a working group to assess a Sinohydro offer for the Valjevo–Bijelo Polje rail reconstruction, and EPS is advancing access roads for the RHPP Bistrica project. Energy Costs: Serbia increased fuel excise duty by about 5.5% for one week starting June 29. Diplomacy: Serbia approved a Sao Tome and Principe consulate in Belgrade, and Foreign Minister Marko Đurić met Brazil’s FM to stress cooperation and support on Kosovo. Sports: Wimbledon opens in London with Serbian Miomir Kecmanović facing Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka playing Teodora Kostović; Serbia’s protests and the heatwave continue to shape daily life.

Protests & Politics: Thousands of Serbs—many students—kept rallying in Kraljevo on Sunday, pressing President Aleksandar Vučić even after he said he will resign “within weeks,” with critics warning he may keep power by shifting to prime minister or backing an ally. Heatwave Crisis: Europe’s deadly heatwave is worsening, with WHO reporting over 1,300 excess deaths since June 21 and forecasts of extreme temperatures affecting Serbia and much of central and eastern Europe. Elections Watch: Vučić’s resignation promise is tied to early presidential and parliamentary polls, but he gave no dates, leaving uncertainty over how power will actually change hands. Defense Policy: Serbia plans to reintroduce mandatory military service from next March for men under 30, reversing the long-standing professional-only model. Justice & Rights: A new NGO report says Serbia recorded at least 110 cases of war-crimes denial or dispute by officials in 2025. Sports (Local): Unicaja coach Txus Vidorreta has started a squad overhaul, adding Cameron Hunt and bringing back Pantzar as the club reshapes its roster.