The Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina/EU Special Representative, Ambassador Peter Sorensen, signed today Memoranda of Understanding with representatives of Bosnia and Herzegovina for extraordinary sectoral budget support aiming at reducing the thousands of war crime investigations and cases pending in Prosecutors’ Offices and Courts throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. 7.5 Million Euros will be provided under IPA 2012 over the next 2.5 years.
These funds will be channelled through the BiH Ministry of Finance and the Treasury to the relevant authorities. They are expected to substantially strengthen the capacity of the judiciary throughout BiH, including through hiring of over 120 personnel including additional judges, prosecutors, witness support staff, legal associates and material costs. In addition, funds for operational costs will also be provided to the benefit of 16 Prosecutors’ Offices and 6 Courts at the State, entity and Brcko District levels as well as support to the Criminal Defence Section in the BiH Ministry of Justice.
“There are around 1350 war crime cases in Bosnia and Herzegovina where the identity of the alleged perpetrator is known and which remain to be investigated and tried. These constitute a very serious burden for Bosnia and Herzegovina, a legacy not only of a very painful recent past but also a risk of continued impunity and unhealed wounds. More than 18 years after the end of the war, thousands of victims and their families have not yet known justice. The processing of war crimes cases is crucial for reconciliation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the whole region. Commitment, support and courage will be central to take this forward. The EU supports these efforts also with the funds provided today.” said Ambassador Sorensen.
