Freedom of expression and its corollary freedom of access to information are cornerstones of a democratic society. The protection and effective exercise of these fundamental rights require a coordinated approach supporting both domestic institutions and civil society organisations to integrate a human rights-based approach in their work.

On 12 June, representatives from key institutions, independent bodies, and civil society organisations convened in Sarajevo to discuss good European practices for monitoring and reporting on human rights, with a particular emphasis on freedom of expression and information. Discussions focused on how these practices could be tailored and applied in the context of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Council of Europe consultants presented a draft study providing a comparative analysis of good practices from Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, and Croatia. The discussions offered a comprehensive overview of monitoring and reporting mechanisms in these countries underlining the added value of the study in sharing actionable insights to guide and inspire relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Practices related to the development of a decentralised system where specialised departments handle specific rights-related areas, as well as the involvement of civil society in monitoring and reporting were among the proposed recommendations that could be implemented in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 The study examined constitutional frameworks but also the allocation of responsibilities, domestic regulations and the government’s role in coordinating the reporting process. It addressed also key challenges and observations raised in international reporting.

Participants agreed on the importance of establishing robust reporting and monitoring structures based on European standards. Such frameworks are essential for helping Bosnia and Herzegovina identify and overcome challenges, ensuring full respect for the rights to freedom of expression and access to information.

Following the exchange of views on the comparative study, on 13 June, the sixth Steering Committee session took place to assess progress of the Council of Europe’s project on enhancing institutional capacities in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the area of freedom of expression and access to information. The Steering Committee reaffirmed its commitment to the successful completion of the project and endorsed the proposed future directions for its implementation.

These activities were organised as part of the project “Enhancing Institutional Capacities on Freedom of Expression and Information (EFEx) in Bosnia and Herzegovina“, funded under the Council of Europe Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina 2022-2025 by voluntary contributions from Sweden via the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).