Freedom of expression and access to information are fundamental pillars of a democratic society, enabling citizens to share their views, participate in public discourse, and hold authorities accountable. The protection of those rights is linked to the promotion of transparency, informed decision-making, and the safeguarding of other human rights, which are crucial to maintaining a health and inclusive democracy.

20 participants coming from institutions at the State, entity and Brčko District levels, along with independent bodies and civil society, from across Bosnia and Herzegovina, gathered at the 7^th meeting of the Cross-Coordinating Working Group on Monitoring and Reporting on Freedom of Expression and Freedom of Information in Bosnia and Herzegovina that took place from 23 to 24 October in Tarčin.

Its ongoing work aims at strengthening the freedom of expression protection system and establishing of efficient systems for monitoring and reporting on human rights. During the meeting, the members of the Working Group collaborated with Council of Europe consultants to prepare the drafting of the Pilot Report on freedom of expression and access to information, aiming at ensuring rigorous data collection and assessment.

This activity is organised by the Division for Cooperation on Freedom of Expression, within the framework of the action ‘Enhancing institutional capacities on freedom of expression and information in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EFEx)’, implemented by the Council of Europe and funded through the voluntary contribution of Sweden, via the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).