Democracy

For the European integration process in BiH it is of critical importance to have effective European integration capacities at all levels of government, in line with their respective competencies, as well as to ensure their effective cooperation and coordination.

The functioning of the existing bodies needs to be strengthened and improved in the light of lessons learned from the preparation of the answers to the Commission's questionnaire.

Steps

4.1.1.1. Joint bodies under the SAA functions properly, with efficient working methods, with a single efficient and effective entry point for coordination on EU integration Activities will be undertaken to analyse existing practices and working methods with aim to identify actionable recommendations for further improvement.

4.1.1.2. Improve the functioning of the EU coordination mechanism within the country notably by strengthening the quality assurance process, in view of preparation for the accession negotiations A functional review will serve to identify possible improvements.

4.1.1.3. Within the context of future EU accession negotiations, adopt a Roadmap on democratic institutions, addressing all outstanding institutional challenges identified in the 2019 Commission opinion on the EU membership application of Bosnia and Herzegovina The roadmap must therefore go beyond political declarations and include concrete actions, timelines, responsible institutions, and indicators of progress, ensuring alignment with EU accession standards (particularly Copenhagen criteria and Chapters 23 and 24).

4.1.1.4. Adopt the Program for Alignment with the Acquis ('NPAA') in line with SAA requirements, notably covering the full EU Acquis, the respective competences for its implementation, the required funding allocation and sources, and administrative capacities. Drafting the Programme for Alignment of Legislation in BiH with the Acquis (NPAA) (including addressing comments from EU commission) will be key to this Step.