The credibility of democratic institutions in the Western Balkans relies heavily on an independent judiciary and effective anti-corruption bodies. While legal frameworks guaranteeing independence are in place across the region, implementation remains inconsistent and in many cases, deeply politicised. The result is a criminal justice system that often struggles to function impartially and to gain public trust.

Judicial councils are frequently criticised for opaque decision-making and susceptibility to political influence, while anti-corruption agencies face chronic challenges, including insufficient resources, weak inter-institutional cooperation, and a lack of institutional safeguards. These structural shortcomings undermine both integrity and effectiveness, and risk entrenching a culture of impunity.

This webinar marks the launch of the second report in the “Integrity and Independence of Criminal Justice Institutions in the Western Balkans” series, developed by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) through its South Eastern Europe Observatory.

Following last year’s assessment of police and prosecution, this edition turns its focus to the judiciary and anti-corruption bodies, providing a critical and comparative analysis of reform trajectories, political interference, and systemic vulnerabilities.

The webinar will present key findings and explore the following questions:

What are the main impediments to ensuring judicial independence and the functional autonomy of anti-corruption bodies?

Where have reforms succeeded in increasing transparency and accountability, and what lessons can be drawn?

How does gender imbalance affect both of these institutions?

How do European and international standards shape reform, and where are the gaps?

What practical steps can be taken to build resilience and restore public confidence?