diplomatic international journalist –
editor at rEUconnection – REUC
digital magazine
Graduated in political science, founder and executive director of the Institute for European Affairs –
Naim Leo Beshiri , is one of the politicians with a rich biography and therefore a unique experience. He started his career at the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Serbia at the human rights education program in 2005. During his work at the Board, he was on an internship at the Norwegian Helsinki Board in Oslo. In 2010, he was employed at the OSCE Mission in Serbia in the Department for Democratization on the equal opportunities program. In 2011, he became a program coordinator at the Center for Euro-Atlantic Studies, where he managed the anti-corruption programs and the analysis of human rights violations of members of the armed forces. He founded the Institute for European Affairs, of which he is also the executive director.
The editorial team of the digital magazine rEUconnecting sought answers to current political issues, both internal and external. Naim Leo Beshiri gave an exclusive interview to REUC.
Journalist: Serbia has been in a political vacuum for some time. While many discuss the problems, little is said about the solutions that could bring the rule of law and rational democracy to Serbian society. How do you see the solution and the way out of this political crisis?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „The political vacuum in Serbia is not merely an absence of power, but the result of a systematic erosion of institutions that should act as checks and balances on any government. The dominance of the executive branch, the weakening of independent bodies, and the diminishing role of the National Assembly have led to a situation where political pluralism exists more on paper than in practice. The solution cannot be reduced to replacing one regime with another; what is needed is a fundamental reconstruction of the political system, restoring the rule of law as the foundation of the social contract. This requires judicial reform, media freedom, and strengthening civil society’s capacity to serve as an authentic voice of the citizens.
Exiting this crisis also depends on changes in political culture. Both citizens and political actors need to embrace responsibility as a cornerstone of public engagement. Education on democratic values and mechanisms of accountability must become a priority, particularly among young people. Furthermore, future political elites must understand that compromise is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that no authority should be above the law. Experiences from successful transitions in other countries show that institutional renewal is a long and arduous process, but the only path to sustainable democracy.
Journalist: Given the pressure from the European Union for Serbia to recognize Kosovo’s independence, while Serbia’s national heritage remains tied to this territory, what kind of diplomacy can be applied to find a compromise between the EU’s demands and the Serbian population, which opposes recognition?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „The issue of Kosovo remains Serbia’s most complex foreign policy and identity challenge. It requires a diplomatic approach that acknowledges the realities of modern international relations while being sensitive to the historical and cultural significance of the territory for the Serbian people. Instead of a policy based on „winners and losers,“ the solution must enable normalization of relations without demanding the renunciation of either side’s core identity. A possible model could involve Kosovo’s membership in international organizations without formal recognition by Serbia, along with strict guarantees for the protection of cultural heritage and the rights of the Serbian community.
Such diplomacy must be creative and flexible but also firmly rooted in the values of respecting rights and dignity for all communities. Compromise does not mean capitulation—it means a strategic redefinition of goals in line with contemporary challenges and the needs of future generations. Serbia must recognize that resolving Kosovo’s status is not an obstacle but an opportunity to reaffirm its responsible role in the region and renew its European perspective.“
Journalist: If Serbia’s political structure changes, what mechanisms can prevent partocracy in the future leadership of the state? Could a rotating government model, like Switzerland’s, be implemented, even if an expert-based governing structure is chosen, to prevent corruption within the system?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „Preventing the return of partocracy requires systemic reforms that limit the monopoly of political parties over state resources and institutions. The key lies in professionalizing the public administration, prohibiting partisan employment practices, and enforcing clear rules on conflicts of interest. Executive mandates should be time-limited, and political party financing must be transparent and subject to strict oversight by independent bodies. Additionally, the media must have the freedom to investigate and report on potential abuses of power without fear of repression.
A collective government model with rotating leadership, like the Swiss system, could inspire some elements of Serbia’s future political structure, but it must be carefully adapted to the local context. It is essential to create mechanisms that prevent the concentration of power while allowing citizens to participate more directly in decision-making processes. Democracy must not depend on the goodwill of political elites but on strong institutions and an engaged citizenry that continuously holds those in power accountable.
Journalist: The European Union’s policy of double standards is becoming increasingly apparent to European citizens. On one hand, democracy and fairness in international relations are promoted, while on the other, Serbia is nearly treated as a mining zone exploited by Europe and China for its mineral wealth. How feasible is it for Serbia to establish clearer policies in the future, ensuring greater sovereignty and stronger internal governance?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „Serbia is in an unfavorable position as a peripheral economy whose wealth, particularly mineral resources, is often extracted with minimal benefit to its own citizens. This situation stems from poorly negotiated contracts and a lack of transparency in dealings with foreign investors. Lithium, one of the most sought-after resources in the transition to a green economy, represents a development opportunity for Serbia—but only if its extraction is conducted according to the highest European environmental protection standards and safeguards the rights of local communities. Unfortunately, the current government has not demonstrated the ability to ensure such standards or involve citizens in decisions regarding their own resources.
To regain sovereignty over its economic policy, Serbia must redefine its development strategy. Rather than merely exporting raw materials, the country should invest in domestic processing capacities and innovations that retain added value within Serbia. At the same time, negotiations with international partners must become more transparent and subject to public scrutiny. Only through such measures can Serbia balance economic needs with the protection of national interests, in line with the principles of responsible governance.“
Journalist: Student protests have „awakened“ dormant Serbian voters as well as the Serbian diaspora. Their protests have sparked what no opposition party has managed to achieve so far. Should students initiate a political movement, a party, or form an organization with serious political influence in Serbia?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „Student movements have traditionally had the potential to drive social change, as they bring authenticity and new energy unburdened by old political divisions. However, prematurely entering party politics could stifle this energy and turn them into just another political option within a system they themselves have criticized. A more effective approach would be the development of an organized civic movement that serves as a check on both the government and opposition, promoting accountability and raising political awareness through education and public campaigns.
The formation of a political entity could come at a later stage, once broader public support is established and young leaders gain enough experience in policy-making. The key is for them to remain true to the principles that motivated their protests—freedom, justice, and accountability. In the long run, student movements can shape a new generation of political leaders who bring change not only through institutions but by redefining political norms and values in society.“
Journalist: How can the Institute for European Affairs, which you founded and currently lead, contribute to creating a stronger political bridge between the EU and Serbia?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „For the past fifteen years, the Institute for European Affairs has worked to strengthen the capacities of citizens and institutions for active participation in European integration processes. Through educational programs, research, and public debates, the Institute contributes to the understanding that European integration is not just a foreign policy obligation but a tool for improving the quality of life for all Serbian citizens. Our efforts include training young leaders, supporting civil society, and developing policies in line with Europe’s best practices.
In the coming period, the Institute will continue to connect domestic stakeholders with European institutions and expert communities. A particular focus will be on promoting the rule of law, protecting human rights, and fostering inclusive economic development. Through this bridge, we aim to ensure that Serbia is not merely an observer in European processes but an active participant and contributor to policies shaping the future of our continent.“
Journalist: When changing the political system in Serbia, and not just the ruling party but the dysfunctional institutions themselves, what should be the first step toward achieving political stability?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „The foundation of a stable modern state is not authoritarian control but citizens’ trust in institutions and respect for the rules of governance. The first step must be restoring judicial independence and freeing the media to function as the „fourth estate“ without interference. Additionally, mechanisms for transparency at all levels of government must be established, along with strict penalties for the misuse of public resources. Parallel to this, it is essential to build a space for civil society to operate freely and enable citizen participation in decision-making processes.
Without functional institutions, no political change will be sustainable. International partners can play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and overseeing key reforms, but the ultimate responsibility lies with domestic actors. Long-term stability depends on educating new generations of leaders who understand the complexity of modern challenges and are ready to govern in the interest of all citizens rather than narrow political groups.“
Journalist: Where do you see yourself in Serbian politics in the coming years? What are your strongest assets that could contribute to improving Serbia’s foreign policy?
Naim Leo Beshiri: „My role remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions and advancing Serbia’s European integration, primarily through education, research, and dialogue. I do not see myself operating within party politics but as part of a broader reformist community working to enhance political culture and establish a functional democracy. Through my work at the Institute for European Affairs, I will continue to help shape public policies based on knowledge, values, and responsibility.
My strongest assets include extensive experience in monitoring and analyzing European policies, advocating for the rule of law and human rights, and building coalitions among different societal actors around common objectives. I firmly believe that Serbia deserves a foreign policy that is predictable, professional, and aligned with values that guarantee peace, stability, and prosperity for all its citizens.“
