EUROPOL'S FUNCTION IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA AND ITS ROLE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION

Abstract

The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) serves as a critical centre for addressing different threats organized different crime activities, actions involving terrorism, and other cross-border security fears across Europe and its neighboring regions. Acting as a central implementor for international cooperation, Europol spearheads efforts to challenge complex security issues that exceed national jurisdictions. This paper examines Europol’s institutional structure, focusing on its operational roles, governance, and its strategic impact in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), an EU membership candidate country. BiH faces significant challenges such as organized and systematized crime, fraud, and political instability, and has benefited greatly from the resources and experience of Europol in fortifying its law enforcement systems. The analysis highlights Europol’s operational initiatives, its partnerships with regional police enforcement in BiH, as well as the judicial system governing its activities in the region. Specific attention is given to Europol’s role in enabling information exchange and providing technical and analytical support to ensure effective cross-border collaboration.
Additionally, this research sightsees the comprehensive implications of Europol’s engagement in BiH, emphasizing its contributions to the country’s EU integration efforts by reinforcing governance, the rule of law, and regional security. The findings highlight Europol’s key role in strengthening BiH’s security architecture while fostering stability and cooperation in the Western Balkans, ultimately contributing to the region's enduring political and economic development.