This high-level regional event brought together ministers, senior government officials, representatives of international organizations and diplomatic missions, and members of civil society. Participants exchanged experiences and best practices in combating corruption, emphasizing the role of transparency, accountability, and cross-border collaboration in advancing European integration and regional stability.
The event coincided with the entry into force of the International Agreement on Data Exchange for the Verification of Asset Declarations — a landmark achievement that enhances transparency and strengthens mechanisms for preventing corruption. This development was hailed as a historic step in the region’s collective efforts to ensure integrity in public service.
Representatives from the European Union, the United Kingdom, Austria, and regional governments underlined the political, economic, and societal importance of the fight against corruption. They highlighted the need for strong political will, effective implementation of laws, and active engagement of civil society in promoting integrity, transparency, and trust in public institutions.
Participants concluded the event by reaffirming their collective commitment to combating corruption and supporting the forthcoming Regional Agreement on Asset Sharing. They emphasized that corruption poses not only an economic challenge but also a threat to regional stability and security. Strengthening integrity systems, enhancing monitoring mechanisms, and fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships were identified as key steps forward.
Participants also recognized the link between corruption and migration trends, stressing the need for effective monitoring tools and integrity indicators to measure progress and ensure accountability.
This regional event, organized as a key side activity of the Berlin Process, was jointly hosted by the Government of the United Kingdom, the Regional Anti-Corruption Initiative (RAI), the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support of HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, the EU Police Assistance for BiH (EUPA4BIH), the AIRE Centre – Western Balkans Programme, and the Austrian Development Agency (ADA).
For a closer look at the discussions and outcomes, explore the Post-Event Summary Report, Policy Brief, and Event Highlights Video, as well as on the Regional Anti-Corruption Initiative website.