UNOPS has aimed to strengthen the readiness of Bosnia and Herzegovina for EU accession negotiations through capacity development and methodological support. The work aligns with the EU’s updated enlargement methodology, aimed at reinforcing the Western Balkans’ stability and fostering a credible EU perspective. The Collegium for European Integration, as a primary coordinating body, has emphasized the importance of a structured Programme of Integration for adopting the EU acquis.

A cohesive approach is necessary for synchronizing key processes – such as the implementation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA), the preparation of the National Programme for the Adoption of the Acquis (NPPA) and reporting mechanisms – to effectively prepare the country’s institutions for the demands of EU accession. Meaningful reform – particularly in judicial independence, anti-corruption measures and media freedom – depends on improved coordination across all levels of government to establish a unified and effective approach.

UNOPS collaborated with the Directorate for European Integration (DEI) to prepare an Evaluation Document to assess and improve Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU coordination mechanism, and a Proposal Paper to enhance the skills necessary for the screening and negotiation processes – including trainings on negotiation frameworks, structuring negotiating positions, acquis implementation and managing deadlines. These documents aimed to lay the groundwork for the country to meet EU standards. UNOPS conducted impactful trainings and strategic briefings for EU coordinators, advisers and DEI staff across all levels of government, fostering leadership, a deep understanding of accession requirements and a cohesive national approach to the EU accession process.

The National Program for the Adoption of the EU Acquis (NPAA) methodology was also successfully prepared and presented to the government Working Group as a crucial tool for tracking legislative alignment with EU standards. This final phase included structured feedback sessions to ensure alignment and refine the approach, culminating in a coordinated strategy for meeting future EU accession requirements.

The work of UNOPS is crucial for advancing Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU accession journey, enhancing governance coordination and institutional capacity, and improving the public perception of government efficiency. By aligning government leaders with EU accession expectations, UNOPS has established a unified stance on necessary reforms and regulatory changes, improved preparedness for EU screening process and negotiations, and a more responsive, accountable and transparent government structure, directly benefiting citizens. The National Program for the Adoption of the EU Acquis (NPAA) methodology now serves as a crucial tool for tracking legislative alignment with EU standards, enabling the country’s institutions to effectively engage with the EU accession process and gradually improve policy outcomes, accountability and the rule of law.

For citizens, these improvements translate into more effective public services, reliable and fair institutions that respond to citizens’ needs, enhanced accountability and consistent reforms in justice, anti-corruption and human rights.

“This assistance program for Bosnia and Herzegovina is highly significant and beneficial for the country, as it provides concrete support in drafting documents and plans with very short mobilization deadlines for experts. The experience of working directly with colleagues from various levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina shows that there is knowledge and desire for the country to advance toward EU membership within the administration and mid-level decision-making. It indicates that the country can leverage the positive momentum created within the EU regarding enlargement, but it is essential for the highest political level of decision-making to move Bosnia and Herzegovina in that direction.”

– Senior Advisor for EU integration coordination, UNOPS K4R Programme

The assignment directly supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina’s governance framework, enhancing institutional accountability and fostering coordination across all levels of government.