Glas javnosti - Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Serbia

22 serbia 2009 : i europeanization: accomplishments and limitations
membership was necessary because of justifi able concern that “a decision
on Serbia’s membership of NATO could be made behind the scenes and
behind citizens’ back.” 6 According to them, such crucial decisions “should
not be left to politicians.” In their appeal they strongly argue that by joining
NATO Serbia recognizes Kosovo’s independence.
Opposing NATO membership and arguing for military neutrality
instead, Professor Svetozar Stojanovic pointed out a major aspect, as he
saw it – the attitude towards Russia. By joining NATO Serbia would hamper
a thorough reconsideration of NATO role and its relationship with
Russia, as well as the Russian concept of international security. “The Russian
initiative for a new international security agreement calls for a constructive
approach,” 7 he said and argued, “As a country ranking high its
independence and dignity, Serbia should restrict its military cooperation
to US, Russia, EU countries, China and India.” 8
Resolution on Srebrenica before
the Parliament (at long last)
In the context of the government’s advance towards Euro-Atlantic integrations
– implying the respect for some moral norms in the long run – President
Tadić initiated a resolution on Srebrenica to be adopted by the Serbian
parliament. In 2009, the European Parliament adopted the declaration
whereby July 11 was proclaimed the Day of Srebrenica. All European
countries became duty-bound to adopt the same document. As for President
Tadić, he said its adoption derived from Serbia’s obligation towards
ICTY, though adding he was aware the idea would not be exactly welcome
by all either in Serbia or in Republika Srpska. 9
In almost no time Boris Tadić’s initiative proved that the society, and
Serbia’s elite in particular, were not ready yet to probe into the recent past.
6 Press, January 12, 2010.
7 Politika, January 14, 2010.
8 Ibid.
9 Danas, January 16, 2010.