Bosnia and Herzegovina has EU's constant support in the fight against corruption

Speaking on the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, December 9, Dr. Renzo Daviddi, Chargé d'affaires of the European Union Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that preventing corruption and fighting corruption is the essence of the EU.

- The stability of institutions, guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights and the proper functioning of a market economy are among the "Copenhagen criteria" for accession. These criteria are also promoted as fundamental values in the founding charters of the EU and are the basis of its functioning - Daviddi said.

- Bosnia and Herzegovina enjoys the full commitment and support of the European Union in the country's efforts to combat corruption. Our significant financial and technical support helps Bosnia and Herzegovina to establish an appropriate institutional framework, adopt or amend certain laws, and ensure adequate allocation of funds. The fight against corruption remains a key priority for the EU.

- In this context, the recommendations adopted at the plenary session of the Structured Dialogue on the Judiciary and other Rule of Law issues, from May 2014, are clear and simple. Special emphasis was placed on the strategic framework for combating corruption. The fight against corruption in potential candidate countries has become a priority for the EU and represents a very important aspect in the accession process.

- We note that the assessment of this sector in the European Commission's 2014 Progress Report on Bosnia and Herzegovina is also present in the latest Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International. This shows that Bosnia and Herzegovina's position has worsened, falling from 72nd place in 2013 to 80th place. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that newly elected officials in BiH now translate political will into concrete actions - Daviddi said.