The European Union (EU) represents a complex legal and political system that has developed through various stages of integration. In this context, the acquis communautaire constitutes a coherent set of principles, directives, and regulations that candidate countries must adopt and implement during the accession process. Chapter 27, which pertains to environmental protection and climate change, is one of the most challenging areas in the negotiations. This chapter encompasses technically complex aspects that require significant long-term investments in infrastructure and institutional capacities, with environmental issues having a direct impact on public health, economic development, and policy in rural and urban areas. The Republic of Serbia, as a candidate country, commenced the formal EU accession process in 2014, after gaining candidate status in 2012. In previous years, Serbia has made significant progress in legislative and institutional arrangements. Meeting the requirements of Chapter 27 entails not only the transposition of directives but also effective implementation, revision of investment plans, and mobilization of financial resources, including funding from the EU and international donors. The aim of this paper is to provide a systematic and critical analysis of the situation in Serbia regarding the fulfillment of Chapter 27 conditions. The paper identifies the main challenges and proposes concrete measures that could accelerate the implementation process and improve effectiveness in environmental protection and climate policies. The conclusion indicates that Chapter 27 represents a crucial test point in Serbia's accession to the European Union. The analysis has shown that the Republic of Serbia has achieved significant progress in legal harmonization, including the adoption of key laws and strategies, alongside the development of national plans and the initiation of infrastructure projects. An integrated approach combining project-oriented financing, legal and operational consistency, monitoring, and the integration of climate goals is essential for meeting the requirements of Chapter 27. This involves adopting a timeline with specific goals and responsibilities, with a short-term focus on preparing and financing priority regional projects, a medium-term focus on implementing key infrastructure interventions, and a long-term focus on achieving integrated resource management. Fulfilling Chapter 27 should not only be viewed as a condition for EU membership but also as an opportunity for transforming national environmental governance. The Government of the Republic of Serbia and the Ministry of Environmental Protection remain firmly committed to aligning with European Union standards in the areas of environmental protection and climate change. This commitment is reflected in ongoing efforts to ensure the necessary legislative solutions, institutional frameworks, and coordination mechanisms that will enable consistent implementation of Chapter 27, as well as activities aimed at attracting and managing international funds for financing priority projects.
Tamara Marjanović (Wed,) studied this question.