The European Union has warned that Bosnia and Herzegovina is losing momentum on its path toward EU membership, as political divisions and delayed reforms leave the country increasingly behind its Western Balkan neighbors.
Presenting the European Commission’s 2026 enlargement assessment on November 4, EU officials said Bosnia had made limited progress despite repeatedly declaring European integration a national priority.
The warning comes as the country faces growing pressure to strengthen its institutions following the October general elections. EEAS+1
Brussels Calls 2026 a Lost Year for Bosnia
Luigi Soreca, head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, delivered the Commission’s latest country report to Borjana Krišto, chairwoman of the Council of Ministers, in Sarajevo.
Soreca described 2026 as a lost year in terms of tangible progress, pointing to political divisions, anti-EU rhetoric and delays in implementing essential reforms.
The Commission acknowledged progress in fighting organized crime, intellectual property protection and customs cooperation. Bosnia also maintained full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy.
However, concerns remain over judicial independence, corruption and freedom of expression.
Bosnia Has Yet to Receive EU Growth Plan Funding
The EU also highlighted the financial consequences of delayed reforms.
According to Soreca, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains the only Western Balkan country that has not received any funding under the EU’s Reform and Growth Facility.
The program links financial assistance to the implementation of reforms designed to strengthen institutions and improve economic development.
EU officials warned that continued delays could affect infrastructure investment, education, healthcare and other public services.
Brussels is also encouraging Bosnia to pursue gradual integration measures that would deliver benefits before full membership, including cheaper cross-border euro payments, reduced roaming charges and expanded educational opportunities.
The Commission urged the country’s newly elected authorities to resume reform efforts and make EU integration a central political priority.
Sources: European Commission, November 4, 2026; EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
