In a new report the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) calls on the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to strengthen their efforts and overcome the political blockages that hold back certain reforms from taking place in order to prevent corruption amongst those with top executive functions (members of the Presidency and their Heads of Office and advisers, the Chair of the Council of Ministers, Ministers, Deputy Ministers and their Heads of Office and advisers) and members of the Border Police and State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA). (See unofficial translation into Bosnian, as provided by the authorities)
Noting that there is currently a legal vacuum in terms of corruption prevention policies in Bosnia and Herzegovina, GRECO calls for adopting an operational corruption prevention action plan based on a risk assessment, specifically targeting persons with top executive functions. In addition, clear guidance regarding conflicts of interest and other integrity-related matters should be developed in a code of conduct for persons with top executive functions. The Agency for Prevention of Corruption and Coordination of the Fight against Corruption (APIK) should also be provided with adequate financial and human resources to perform its tasks effectively.
The implementation of the recommendations will be assessed by GRECO in 2024 through its compliance procedure.
