Rule of law as the foundation of European integration achievements and challenges of the Republic of Serbia within chapter 24: Justice, freedom and security

The rule of law represents one of the fundamental pillars of the European integration process and a key prerequisite for membership in the European Union. In the context of Negotiation Chapter 24 - Justice, Freedom and Security, this value encompasses a wide range of reform obligations related to an efficient judiciary, the fight against corruption and organized crime, the protection of fundamental rights, migration and border management, as well as interinstitutional cooperation. This paper aims to provide an analysis of the current state of the rule of law in the Republic of Serbia through the lens of reform requirements and assessments presented by the European Commission in its annual reports. Special attention is given to the normative framework, institutional reforms, and the challenges in their implementation. Through a comparative perspective and an analysis of political and institutional factors, the paper highlights the obstacles that hinder the establishment of the rule of law as a sustainable standard. It concludes that progress in Chapter 24 cannot be viewed solely through a formal-legal lens, but requires a profound shift in institutional culture, political will, and transparency. Finally, the paper offers recommendations for further progress, with special emphasis on strengthening judicial independence and improving oversight of reform implementation.