The Law on the Conflict of Interests must meet international standards, in a joint statement by the EU Delegation to BiH and the Office of the Special Representative of the EU to BiH, Office of the High Representative to BiH and the US Embassy to BiH.
It was emphasized the regardless of the outcome for the proceedings for the protection of vital national interests that triggered the Bosniak caucus in the House of Peoples, ”we wish to reiterate that the proposed amendments have not been subject to proper consultations with all stakeholders”.
”We are concerned that the proposed Law, as it stands, does not meet relevant international standards for conflict of interest rules. These standards require that the body implementing conflict of interest be independent and have the required expertise. Also, a right to appeal against decisions should be ensured”.
It was said that the the proposed law is vitally important for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s fight against corruption, which is one of the country’s most pressing challenges. The accountability of public office holders and transparency of their activities are of the utmost public interest and represent key democratic principles.
”We strongly believe that a discussion of the text is necessary and that the opinion of the Venice Commission to verify the compatibility of the proposed law with international standards should be sought”, said in a statement of the EU Delegation to BiH and the Office of the EU Special Representative to BiH, Office of the High Representative to BiH and the US Embassy to BiH.