Report from the Commission on the Progress in Bulgaria Under the Co-Operation and Verification Mechanism

1. INTRODUCTION The purpose of the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism1 (CVM), established on the accession of Bulgaria to the EU, is to help put in place an impartial, independent and effective judicial and administrative system properly equipped interalia to fight corruption and organised crime. This involves making certain fundamental changes, which takes time and also requires broad political support across the political spectrum as well as in society at large. At the same time, these changes are an indispensible investment in the future of Bulgaria - an effective administrative and judicial system is necessary for sound public finances and well rooted socio-economic development. It is also necessary to enable Bulgaria to play its full role as a member of the EU in areas such as justice and home affairs.