COMBATING ORGANIZED CRIME AND CORRUPTION –

A REGIONAL CHALLENGEBečići, 20-23 April 2013

Ms. Sheelagh Brady Senior Security Information Analyst,

UNDSS & Crime and Security Consultant

Organised Crime in Bosnia Herzegovina “A silent war fought by an ambush of toothless

tigers, or a war not yet fought?” 2012

Aim – to examine the evolution of OC in BiH since before the war until day.

Main finding – little has changed in the rhetoric over the past 20 years, with many willing to accept the status quo because of the protection and security it offers.

Recent Publication

Relationships developed during and after the war between politicians, the business elite and organised criminals still inhibit the required shift to transparent and accountable self governance.

Corruption endemic in BiH society, at all levels Bribes and intimidation used to inappropriate

influence No political will to investigate the issue No targeted investigations Agencies are disempowered by the provision

of weak mandates and limited resources.

All of which have facilitated the emergence of blurred lines between criminality and legitimate business relationships.

Political scenery today

Creation of illegal monopolies, assisted by involvement in the following:

Improper procurement &

public tenders procedures Improper privatisation

processes Abuse of public funds Estate capture Misuse of utility & energy

companies Influence on financial

institutions – unsecure loans.

Commodities trafficking Inappropriate sale &

supply of pharmaceuticals Weapons production, sale

and supply Interference &

intimidation in the Political & Criminal Justice System

Media influence & domination

The growing cooperation at the regional level

EU Accession

Civil society

You.

Possible catalysts for change!

Thank you very much for your attention.

Should you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me at:

sheelagh.brady@undss.org sheelaghbrady@gmail.com http://ba.linkedin.com/in/sheelaghbrady

Better to have tried and failed….