EU action has had little impact in advancing fundamental rule of law reforms in the Western Balkans, according to a special report published by the European Court of Auditors (ECA). Some technical and operational reforms have taken place in the region. But in a context of insufficient political will and a lack of engagement, EU…
The House of Representatives of the Parliament of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has voted to ban the construction of small hydropower plants across the Federation, in a huge win for communities who depend on the rivers. The decision followed a lengthy campaign by local communities and activists from the national Coalition for the Protection…
Following debate in the EP Foreign Affairs Committee this afternoon, the Picula Report was adopted and its key recommendations agreed. These include the requirement for the EU to ensure that its enlargement methodology supports reforms and sustains fully-fledged membership as the final goal for accession countries. The report was adopted with 58 votes for, 7 against…
MEPs are expected to adopt a report in the run-up to the 2020 Balkan summit that is scheduled for this spring in Zagreb. The report lists recommendations on the EU’s approach towards Balkan countries aspiring to join the European Union. They will vote on the text prepared by the rapporteur Tonino Picula (S&D, HR) that largely…
With winter approaching and thousands of migrants and refugees in Bosnia and Herzegovina living outside of adequate facilities, the European Commission has announced an additional €2 million in humanitarian aid. This brings EU humanitarian aid in the country to €5.8 million since 2018. Christos Stylianides, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, said: “Winter is coming and…
