Political integrity reports highlight corruption risks in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia

Monitoring reports from Istinomjer and CRTA highlight significant challenges regarding political integrity and the use of public resources in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Istinomjer tracked 251 pre-election promises made by the ruling government. Of the 54 promises related to anti-corruption, transparency, and institutional integrity, only three were fully fulfilled and five were largely fulfilled. While some progress was noted, such as the establishment of a centralized public procurement system and the adoption of the Law on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest, 46 anti-corruption promises were either partially fulfilled or not realized at all.

In Serbia, a report by the Center for Research, Transparency and Accountability (CRTA) found that nearly one-fifth of over 1,200 field activities conducted by high-ranking state officials between May and August showed elements of public resource abuse. CRTA noted a growing blurring of lines between the state and the ruling party, alongside increased polarization and threats of violence. The organization has requested that the Anti-Corruption Agency monitor the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) regarding the potential misuse of funds during political rallies.