FBiH launches special judicial departments to tackle corruption, organised crime

The newly established Special Department of the Supreme Court and the Special Department of the FBiH Prosecutor’s Office were inaugurated at a ceremony attended by FBiH Prime Minister Nermin Niksic, HJPC President Sanin Bogunic, Supreme Court President Vesna Cosovic, and FBiH Chief Prosecutor Munib Halilovic.

Officials said the departments represent a long-overdue step toward strengthening judicial independence and fighting high-level crime with greater efficiency. The move operationalises legal provisions passed in 2014, but only now fully implemented.

Prime Minister Niksic expressed gratitude to international partners, particularly the US Embassy, and emphasised that politics must create a space where the judiciary can function freely. HJPC President Bogunić described the launch as a culmination of years of joint effort.

Supreme Court President Cosovic acknowledged ongoing challenges, including limited equipment and staffing delays, but noted that the departments had secured essential resources to begin work. She said their strategic role goes beyond individual cases, impacting the integrity of the entire judiciary.

Chief Prosecutor Halilovic urged patience, noting that staffing and procurement processes are still underway. Six prosecutors have been appointed so far, with more expected in the coming weeks.

The Special Department will handle the most complex and sensitive cases, including corruption, organised crime, terrorism, and crimes involving FBiH officials. According to Deputy Chief Prosecutor Hrvoje Cabrajic, this centralised approach aims to streamline proceedings and address longstanding inefficiencies in cantonal courts.