BIRN explores the potential repercussions of a draft bill in Bosnia’s Republika Srpska entity aimed at regulating CSOs receiving foreign funding. Critics argue that the bill, reminiscent of similar legislation in Russia, raises concerns about authoritarianism and could significantly impact CSOs working to safeguard democracy, media freedom, and human rights in Republika Srpska. The draft, adopted by the local government in September, is set for assembly debate after a public consultation period ending in mid-December. If approved, the legislation will establish a register for foreign-funded non-profits, mandating transparency through financial reporting and granting the government the authority to label them “agents of foreign influence.” Learn more about BCSDN’s advocacy on this issue here.
Source: Balkan Insight