European Parliament adopted on Thursday a report on Bosnia and Herzegovina, expressing strong support for the country's integration into the European Union and welcoming the country's commitment to advancing on this path. It said that the reforms in the areas of democratic functionality, rule of law, fundamental rights and public administration are crucial for that to happen.

The report was adopted with 483 votes, while 73 voted against and 133 abstained from the vote.

According to the press released issued after the vote, the MEPs recognised “the steps taken by Bosnia and Herzegovina to address key aspects of the (European) Commission’s Opinion on the country’s EU membership application,” but has also recalled “that the effective functioning of independent and accountable democratic institutions is a prerequisite for advancing in the EU integration process, including obtaining candidate status.”

The MEPs said that the reforms in the areas of democratic functionality, rule of law, fundamental rights and public administration are crucial.

The Parliament also expressed strong support for BiH’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence, noting that the path to the EU membership depends on “sustainable peace, stability and meaningful reconciliation that underpins the democratic and multicultural character of Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

As for the obligations that the country is expected to meet on its EU path, the MEPs said that BiH needs to address shortcomings in its constitutional framework and move forward with reforms to transform the country into a fully functional state.

The report called on authorities to resume talks on electoral reform, which would eliminate all forms of inequality and discrimination in the electoral process.

The MEPs also touched upon the migration issue and urged Bosnian authorities to improve the border management and build appropriate reception capacities across the country.

Rapporteur for BiH Paulo Rangel also called for reforms that will “allow BiH to advance on its European path and obtain the candidate status.

“This is only possible by affirming Bosnia and Herzegovina’s pluralistic nature while ensuring a functional democracy where all peoples and citizens are equal!,” he said.