By Oculus News Editorial Staff
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Sven Giegold, former state secretary in Olaf Scholz’s government and deputy leader of Germany’s Green Party, has criticized European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over what he describes as the EU’s inconsistent response to democratic challenges in the Balkans and beyond.
In a social media statement, Giegold also shared a photograph of von der Leyen’s recent meeting with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, drawing attention to Brussels’ relations with political leaders facing criticism over governance and the rule of law.
“The pattern is familiar: tolerance towards Edi Rama in Albania, silence in the face of attacks on democracy in Georgia, and gas deals with the regime in Azerbaijan,” Giegold wrote.
His criticism comes amid developments in Serbia, where a student-led movement won a historic parliamentary election victory against the political force led by Aleksandar Vučić after nearly two years of protests. The result has renewed debate over the EU’s previous approach to Belgrade and its response to concerns about corruption and democratic standards.
Giegold called on the European Union to defend democratic values, media freedom and the rule of law more firmly, even when doing so conflicts with short-term political or economic interests.
His remarks raise a broader question about Brussels’ approach to the Western Balkans: whether its pursuit of regional stability and strategic partnerships is being balanced with consistent pressure for democratic accountability.