CRTA joins EPD network
The European Partnership for Democracy is pleased to welcome its newest member, the Centre for Research, Transparency and Accountability (CRTA), a Belgrade-based democracy watchdog.
For over two decades, CRTA has dedicated itself to strengthening democracy by monitoring institutions, promoting political accountability, and encouraging citizens’ participation in democratic processes. While initially only operating in Serbia, CRTA has become a gravitational centre of civil society in the Western Balkans. Recently, they also established a Brussels-based sister organisation, EUCRTA, to strengthen ties between democracy defenders across the Western Balkans and the European Union.
CRTA joins EPD at a particularly crucial moment for democracy in Serbia and the wider Western Balkans. Amidst significant political upheavals, CRTA continues its work on election observation, promoting electoral integrity, and institutional transparency and accountability. This work is taking place in an increasingly challenging environment for civil society, including persistent smear campaigns targeting democracy defenders and the looming threat of restrictive “foreign agent” legislation.
“Joining EPD at this pivotal moment means a great deal to CRTA. The challenges facing democracy in Serbia are not isolated: they reflect a broader pressure on democratic institutions, civic freedoms and independent voices across the Western Balkans, Europe and beyond. In an environment where civil society organisations are increasingly targeted and their space to operate is shrinking, solidarity is not simply a gesture of support. It is a source of strength, resilience and collective action. Being part of a wider European community of democracy defenders reminds us that we are not alone in these struggles. It creates opportunities to learn from one another, amplify our voices, and stand together when democratic values come under pressure.”
Vukosava Crnjanski, Director and Founder of CRTA
