A new high-security detention complex has been opened today in Igman, including Object C of the detention unit, a service building, and the administration building of the semi-open type of Sarajevo correctional facility. With this, the entire prison complex in Igman is now fully operational. The new high-security complex has a capacity for 150 detainees and will contribute to improved security, better detention conditions, and more efficient functioning of judicial institutions.
The European Union financed the full construction and equipping of Object C, the service building, and the administration building of the detention unit with approximately 9.5 million BAM, while the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina provided an additional 5 million BAM.
The newly constructed facilities, covering an area of 4,500 m², have been built in line with European standards, including high energy efficiency, fire detection systems and modern security systems for access control and movement monitoring inside and outside the facility.
“This modern facility reflects the strong partnership between the EU and the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina in strengthening the rule of law and advancing justice sector reform. As the largest donor and a trusted partner to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the EU remains committed to supporting full justice sector reform through numerous projects across the country. This project is a concrete example of that support. Together, we are building a system in which justice is effective and citizens can have full confidence in their institutions. I am particularly pleased that this facility fully meets European standards, which confirms Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law, security, and the protection of citizens’ rights,” said Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Magdalena Mueller-Uri.
The construction and expansion of the detention complex in Igman began in 2020, aiming to increase existing capacities and relocating the long-standing detention unit from the centre of Sarajevo.
Director of Sarajevo Prison, Munib Isaković, emphasized that the project began in 2021 and that the occupancy permit was obtained at the beginning of 2026. “Today, we are putting into operation the remaining part of Facility C, with a capacity of 150 persons, as well as the service building, internal access road and public lighting. A total of BAM 20,964,053 has been invested. Through the implementation of this project, we are sending a message of general prevention in the fight against all forms of crime, while ensuring humane treatment of detainees and a safe working environment for staff”, said Isaković.
The combination of physical and video surveillance, security barriers, alarm systems and other modern protective measures ensures a high level of security at this facility. The complex is intended to accommodate both detainees awaiting court decisions and convicted persons serving prison sentences.
In addition to construction works, EU support included the development of an operational model aligned with EU standards, a modern audiovisual surveillance system, a specialised secure transport vehicle and a digitalisation project connecting the facility with the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina and other institutions to ensure efficient and secure data exchange.
This project represents only one part of the European Union’s comprehensive support to justice sector reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The EU continues to invest in the modernisation of judicial infrastructure, including the construction and upgrading of courts, prosecutor’s offices, and detention facilities across the country, alongside providing technical and expert assistance to reforms that contribute to a more efficient and transparent justice system in line with EU standards, EU Delegation in BiH writes.
