Compliance Training for Financial Institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Step Towards a More Transparent and Accountable Central Bank
Introduction
In a country where corruption is rampant, the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CBBH) has taken a significant step towards promoting transparency and accountability by launching a comprehensive compliance training program. This initiative aims to strengthen the bank’s internal controls and ensure that it meets international standards.
Establishing a Compliance Function
The CBBH’s compliance function was established in response to recommendations from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which advised the bank to set up an office dedicated to managing compliance risks. Sanja Romić-Bajramović, the bank’s compliance officer, underwent training for compliance management and anti-bribery management in 2022.
Adopting a Code of Ethics
The bank has also adopted a new code of ethics, which provides guidance on conflicts of interest, gifts, and hospitality, as well as a zero-tolerance policy for corruption. An independent body oversees the bank’s ethical line, a protected online system that allows anonymous reporting of corruption or suspicious activities.
Collaborating with External Partners
The CBBH worked with several external partners, including the Swiss embassy and local compliance consultancy Net Consulting, to develop its whistleblower policies. The bank is now a leader among public institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina in terms of transparency and accountability.
Measuring Success
Since the introduction of its whistleblower policies, the CBBH has received eight reports of irregular behavior, which were all resolved within specified deadlines.
Raising Awareness
The bank’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability have not gone unnoticed. Romić-Bajramović has given presentations to other state agencies, and the bank is working with Transparency International to raise awareness about its whistleblower policies.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges faced by the CBBH in implementing its compliance training program, the bank remains committed to promoting transparency and accountability within the financial sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The initiative serves as a model for other institutions in the country, highlighting the importance of adopting international standards and best practices in managing compliance risks.
Building Trust in the Financial Sector
The Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability is a step towards building trust in the institution and the financial sector as a whole. By following the example set by the CBBH, other institutions can work towards creating a more transparent and accountable financial system that benefits all stakeholders.
References
- International Monetary Fund (IMF). Recommendations for Compliance Management.
- Net Consulting. Whistleblower Policies Development.