Based in Prishtina, Kosovo, BIFR has brought together economists, bankers, lawyers, and security experts from all of Western Balkans. The Western Balkan countries emerged not long ago from devastating conflicts and totalitarian regimes, and have now pledged to strengthen the rule of law and join the European Union. But serious challenges — including corruption, informal economy, and terrorism fina
ncing — remain. BIFR is committed to help tackle those issues, and has adopted as its main objectives:
To identify problems in the financial sector and to organize efforts to address those problems
To educate businesses, non-profit organizations, and the public at large about their obligations under financial law
To protect the public from becoming victims of financial fraud, money laundering, and illicit funds dedicated to financing extremism
To inspire the youth to become financially responsible adults, ethical professionals, and contributing members of their communities
BIFR has been particularly active in Kosovo, where money laundering and terrorism financing present a heightened challenge to the rule of law and political stability. Illicit funds have targeted vulnerable sections such as the youth, which is exceptionally active in public life through NGOs and other social groups. Hundreds of Kosovars have joined terrorist fighters in the Syrian Civil War, and radicalism sponsored by illicit funds has become an increasing concern. BIFR has hence made it a priority to work with the youth and NGOs as part of the efforts to improve the rule of law. The institute cooperates with government institutions and civil society to identify problems and make policy recommendations. Likewise, BIFR monitors the work of the financial authorities, and measures reporting and other compliance matters in the private sector. As an independent institute, BIFR is dedicated to work with scholarly diligence, honesty, and integrity. BIFR values freedom, democracy, and diversity, and is open to anyone embracing such values. The institute treats each person according to individual merits, and does not discriminate on the basis of the group or class someone belongs to.
