EU-BiH Justice and Security Subcommittee Meeting: A Step Towards EU Integration

The 8th Subcommittee meeting on Justice, Freedom and Security under the European Union (EU) – Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) Stabilisation and Association Agreement took place on December 10 and 11, 2024, in Brussels in a hybrid format. This meeting aimed to discuss the progress and challenges in the areas of justice, freedom, and security in BiH, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to supporting the country’s integration into the European Union.

Key Takeaways

• The EU reiterated its support for BiH’s EU integration and the need for tangible progress in justice and security reforms.
• The Commission highlighted the importance of adopting a comprehensive Reform Agenda to unlock EUR 1 billion in funding for reforms.
• Ongoing integrity-related amendments to the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (HJPC) were welcomed, with calls for swift implementation.
• Emphasis was placed on ensuring fundamental rights, including gender equality and freedom of expression.
• The need for a solid legal framework to combat corruption and organized crime was underscored.

EU’s Commitment to BiH

During the meeting, the EU Commission, represented by Ms. Barbara Jésus-Gimeno, expressed its unwavering support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey towards EU membership. The Commission stressed that the necessary steps for BiH to progress towards a Negotiating Framework are primarily within the scope of this subcommittee. The EU expects BiH to adopt a draft Reform Agenda promptly, which is crucial for the citizens to benefit from the substantial financial support tied to the fulfillment of reforms.

Justice System Reforms

The Commission highlighted the importance of establishing an independent and efficient justice system in BiH. Key points discussed included:

1. Integrity Checks: The ongoing implementation of integrity-related amendments to the HJPC was welcomed, with a call for the commencement of integrity checks under external monitoring.
2. New Legislation: The need to finalize and adopt a comprehensive new law on the HJPC and the Courts of BiH in alignment with European standards was emphasized.
3. Judiciary Reform Framework: A strategic framework for judiciary reform with effective monitoring was urged to ensure accountability and progress.

Fundamental Rights and Freedoms

The meeting also focused on the importance of upholding fundamental rights in BiH. The Commission underscored:

• The necessity for all citizens to enjoy their rights without discrimination.
• The importance of protecting the rights of children, freedom of assembly, and access to information.
• The need for effective measures to combat gender-based violence and ensure gender equality.
• The urgency of decriminalizing defamation and protecting journalists from threats and violence.

Combating Corruption and Organized Crime

The EU Commission reiterated the need for BiH to establish a robust legal and institutional framework to effectively tackle corruption and organized crime. Key points included:

• Improved coordination among anti-corruption bodies and law enforcement agencies.
• A significant enhancement in the track record of investigations and prosecutions related to organized crime and corruption.
• The importance of implementing anti-money laundering legislation and improving financial investigations.

Migration Management

The meeting concluded with discussions on migration management, where the Commission welcomed the conclusion of negotiations for a Status Agreement with Frontex. The following points were highlighted:

• The urgent need for BiH to adopt a law on border management.
• The importance of establishing a sustainable migration management system, including effective asylum management and combating smuggling.
• The ongoing efforts in implementing voluntary and non-voluntary returns of individuals not in need of international protection, in line with EU standards.

In summary, the EU-BiH Justice and Security Subcommittee meeting served as a crucial platform for discussing the necessary reforms and actions required for Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance towards EU integration, emphasizing the importance of justice, fundamental rights, and effective governance.

Sources

• EU-BiH Stabilisation and Association Agreement 8th Subcommittee on Justice, Freedom and Security | EEAS, EEAS.