Representatives from the Western Balkans met in Podgorica for a Berlin Process side event on illicit finance. Hosted by the United Kingdom, the event brought together regional and international experts to discuss measures to strengthen financial integrity and support the Western Balkans on their EU path.
British Ambassador to Montenegro, Dawn McKen, said that “Tackling illicit finance is not just a technical priority, it is a political and economic one that affects citizens every day. Recovering assets, improving transparency, and formalising the economy are key to building trust in institutions and creating fair, resilient, and prosperous economies. The UK is proud to support the Western Balkans six countries in taking these practical steps and reinforcing the region’s European path."
The discussions focused on three areas:
• Asset Recovery: Deterring crime and ensuring accountability.
• Transparency in Beneficial Ownership: Tackling business anonymity that enables corruption and illicit financial flows.
• Reducing Informality: Tackling informal economic activity to prevent money laundering and strengthen state oversight.
Key organisations supporting the event included the World Bank, Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the AIRE Centre and the Czech Police. Participants explored practical actions to combat illicit finance, strengthen institutions, and enhance transparency across the region.