EU Envoy in Sarajevo: Reform Agenda unlocks nearly €1 billion opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina

After more than a year and a half of negotiations, the Council of Ministers of BiH finalised and sent the Reform Agenda to the European Commission. According to Soreca, this marks the beginning of a transformative process, not its conclusion.

Speaking before the BiH Parliamentary Assembly last week, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos stressed that the Union was offering €1 billion to invest in roads, affordable energy, and faster internet. “I want the full amount to be spent for the benefit of BiH’s citizens,” Kos underlined, warning that around €100 million would be cut if reforms were not delivered on time.

The finalised agenda, dispatched to Brussels only hours before the September 30 deadline, is now under review by the European Commission. If approved, Bosnia and Herzegovina will be able to access up to €976.6 million in EU funding aimed at job creation, growth, and infrastructure.

Soreca described the Reform Agenda as a comprehensive plan showcasing both the capabilities of BiH’s civil service and the possibility of political consensus when there is genuine will. He urged more constructive cooperation and less political posturing, which, he said, damages the country’s interests.

“The biggest reward is not the EU money, but the reforms themselves,” Soreca wrote, pointing to improvements in the business climate, governance, and social services that could follow.

Examples within the document include e-governance initiatives designed to cut down on time-consuming bureaucracy, expanded access to early childhood education and internet in schools, as well as the rollout of 5G and more secure broadband. Reforms also target the fight against corruption, organised crime, and efforts to strengthen the judiciary.

“There are over 100 reforms, each of which will bring clear improvements for life in BiH,” Soreca emphasised.

Funding will also be made available through the Western Balkans Investment Framework, but only for projects aligned with the Growth Plan. Possible areas of investment could include completing the Corridor 5c motorway or renewable energy projects.

Soreca reminded that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s future is closely tied to the EU: almost 75 percent of its exports go to the European Union, compared to less than one percent to Russia. “It is clear that a stronger relationship with the EU leading to membership is the best way to improve the quality of life for citizens,” he noted.

Calling the submission of the Reform Agenda a crucial first step, Soreca urged BiH leaders to stay the course: “Now the first steps have been made, let’s work together to reach the finish line.”