GENERAL INFORMATION
TAM title: The further development of the baseline of Qualifications Framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina and EU directives on recognition of professional qualifications
Type of Event: Workshop
Modality: Presential
Location: International University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo
Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Dates: 7 – 8 February 2024
Participants: 38 participants from all target institutions, including national and subnational education authorities, the Centre for Information and Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education, and representatives from various higher education institutions across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
THEMES COVERED
- Comparing Qualifications: National Qualifications Frameworks, EHEA Qualifications Framework, European Qualifications Frameworks.
- Developing frameworks for automatic recognition.
Implementation of Directive 2005/36/EC and Directive 2013/55EU - Experiences in Croatia and Slovenia.
KEY OUTCOMES
During the workshop participants:
- Deepened their understanding of qualifications frameworks, quality assurance, and recognition processes
- Engaged in open and constructive discussions, establishing a solid foundation for ongoing dialogue on higher education reforms aligned with EU and EHEA standards
Accessed up-to-date information on the implementation of qualifications frameworks and recognition mechanisms.
OVERVIEW
The workshops brought together a range of stakeholders from Bosnia and Herzegovina’s higher education sector to discuss qualifications frameworks, quality assurance, automatic recognition, and recognition of professional qualifications. Discussions were active and generally constructive, with participants showing interest in the presented topics and sharing their perspectives on current challenges. Over the two days, the workshops helped clarify key concepts related to qualifications framework implementation and recognition procedures. While the level of prior knowledge among participants varied, efforts were made to make the content accessible, and participants appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and explore concrete examples. The sessions also surfaced a clear interest in learning more about how other systems operate, particularly within the context of the European Higher Education Area. At the same time, the workshops highlighted ongoing gaps. While some participants are well-informed and motivated, there is still a need for clearer methodologies and more practical guidance on how to move from discussion to implementation. Continued expert support and further events could help maintain momentum and provide platforms for more targeted dialogue and planning among key actors.
THE FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
Title of the activity: Meeting contact point, sub-contact points and coordinating institution (Ministry of Civil Affairs of BiH) and representatives of higher education institutions.
Dates: April 2024
Audience: 25 participants
Description: The Ministry of Civil Affairs, in cooperation with the Centre for Information and Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education (CIP) and the competent educational authorities, has developed a project task aimed at analysing and mapping professional qualifications and regulated professions across all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The primary goal of the project is to improve conditions for education and employment by aligning national legislation with the European Union's legal framework. This includes creating a comprehensive list of regulated professions and related qualifications and drafting a proposal for their official recognition.
The activities foreseen include compiling a national list of regulated professions, conducting a detailed analysis and mapping of existing qualifications, and developing model regulations for the recognition of regulated professions. This work is considered essential for advancing the qualifications framework and improving mobility and employment opportunities in line with EU standards.
ENHANCING IMPACT: PROPOSED NEXT STEPS
- Reform the governance of higher education institutions, ensuring accountability and the operational independence of quality assurance agencies.
- Strengthen internationalisation, academic mobility, and the integration of doctoral studies with research and innovation.
- Improve understanding and application of the qualifications framework by developing a unified national register and clarifying distinctions between Bologna and pre-Bologna systems.
- Enhance cooperation and coordination among competent authorities, including through regular meetings, workshops, and practical trainings.
- Ensure inclusive stakeholder involvement and promote the consistent implementation of directives in institutional practice.
- Update contact points and begin developing a national list and model regulations for the recognition of regulated professions.
RESOURCES AND BACKGROUND MATERIAL
- European Parliament and Council of the European Union (2005).
Directive 2005/36/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005 on the recognition of professional qualifications. Official Journal of the European Union, L 255, 30 September 2005, pp. 22–142. Available at: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2005/36/oj/eng - European Parliament and Council of the European Union (2013).
Directive 2013/55/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 November 2013 amending Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications and Regulation (EU) No 1024/2012 on administrative cooperation through the Internal Market Information System (IMI). Official Journal of the European Union, L 354, 28 December 2013, pp. 132–170. Available at: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2013/55/oj/eng - European Parliament and Council of the European Union (2018).
Directive (EU) 2018/958 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 June 2018 on a proportionality test before adoption of new regulation of professions. Official Journal of the European Union, L 173, 9 July 2018, pp. 25–34. Available at: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2018/958/oj/engg European Commission (n.d.).
Regulated Professions Database – National websites. Brussels: European Commission. Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/regprof/nationalwebsitesRepublic of Slovenia (n.d.).
List of regulated professions. Ljubljana: State Portal for Business Entities (SPOT). Available at: https://spot.gov.si/en/topics/list-of-regulated-professions/
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