Representatives from institutions, independent agencies, and civil society organisations gathered in Tarčin for a two-day meeting to discuss the establishment of an effective monitoring and reporting mechanism for freedom of expression and information in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the development of new strategies to address ongoing challenges in this area.
The need for stronger inter-sectoral cooperation to protect freedom of expression and ensure free access to information is further highlighted by the fact that, according to the annual World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Bosnia and Herzegovina has fallen from 64th place in 2023 to 81st in 2024.
The Coordination Working Group on Monitoring and Reporting of Freedom of Expression and Access to Information held its ninth session under the auspices of the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participants analysed best practices from EU member states aimed at improving the protection and safety of journalists and explored their potential application in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Civil society representatives provided insights into the concrete challenges journalists face in the field.
This information is crucial for developing a strategic framework document on the protection and safety of journalists, as outlined in the Council of Europe’s “Journalists Matter” campaign. Discussions also focused on the ongoing harmonisation of the Pilot Report on Freedom of Expression and Freedom of Information, which will provide a comprehensive overview of the situation in this area.
Strengthening human rights-based monitoring and reporting remains a key priority in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s broader efforts to implement international recommendations and standards regarding freedom of expression and free access to information.
Addressing the participants on the first day of the meeting, Bojana Urumova, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Sarajevo, underscored the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s active participation in the “Journalists Matter” campaign, which led by the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina and supported by the Working Group. The Campaign not only highlights the crucial role of journalists in upholding democracy, the rule of law, and human rights, but also urges Council of Europe member states to strengthen their efforts in preventing, investigating, and sanctioning threats and attacks against journalists.
Established in 2023 with the support of the Council of Europe, the Working Group plays a key role in advancing the Campaign’s objectives in collaboration with designated focal points for Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Council of Europe writes.
Photo: CoE
