Centro de Documentação da PJ
Analítico de Periódico
CD 368
Strengthening the integrity and independence of police and prosecution institutions in the Western Balkans / Ioannis Vlassis
European Law Enforcement Research Bulletin, Luxembourg, Special conference (Edition n. 7, 2026), p. 333-343
Edição especial da conferência n.º 7 da “CEPOL R&S Conference 2024/2025”, subordinada ao tema “Tackling the World of High-Risk Criminal Networks (HRCN)", que teve lugar em Ostia (Roma), nos dias 25 a 27 de março de 2025.
PREVENÇÃO DA CORRUPÇÃO, CRIME ORGANIZADO, REFORMA PENAL, SEPARAÇÃO DE PODERES, ESTADO DE DIREITO, BALCÃS OCIDENTAIS
This article examines the integrity and independence of police and prosecution services in the Western Balkans, focusing on structural and operational factors that continue to undermine their capacity to prevent and prosecute corruption and organised crime. Drawing on comparative, multi-country research conducted between 2023 and 2024, the analysis combines normative and institutional review, with case studies and expert interviews across the Western Balkans six. While the region has undertaken extensive legal and institutional reforms to more closely align themselves with the European Union and international standards, the findings indicate that political interference, weak oversight mechanisms, operational constraints and persistent gender imbalances remain significant challenges. By situating national-level dynamics within a broader regional framework, the article identifies common patterns of vulnerability affecting police and prosecutorial independence. The paper concludes by reflecting on the practical limitations of reform implementation and outlining priority areas where institutional safeguards, professional capacity and accountability mechanisms require strengthening to ensure sustainable progress in the rule of law.
