EU envoy Luigi Soreca urges Bosnia‑Herzegovina to adopt judicial reforms

EU special representative Luigi Soreca told a final EU4Justice conference that strengthening the rule of law is essential for Bosnia‑Herzegovina’s EU accession. He warned that the country lags behind regional peers and highlighted this week’s chance to pass two key statutes – the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (VSTV) and the Law on Courts – which are expected to be debated in the House of Peoples.

Soreca emphasized that the EU is the biggest donor to Bosnia’s judiciary and that the EU4Justice project has enabled courts to issue digital certificates confirming no criminal proceedings, a step toward greater transparency and efficiency. He stressed that sustainable reforms, including rigorous asset‑and‑interest checks for judicial officials, are needed to combat corruption and build public trust. While the EU remains a reliable partner, its continued support is contingent on Bosnia aligning its legislation and practice with EU standards. "Without functional rule of law, there is no progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina on its European path," he said, calling on political leaders to demonstrate commitment.