NATO adopted the benchmarks last May as part of its approval of the Stabilization Force military operations plan. There is general agreement that there has been considerable progress in the past year. The basic institutions of the state, both political and economic, have been established.
Key laws regarding foreign investment, privatization, and property are now in place.
Freedom of movement across the country has substantially improved. Fundamental reform of the media is underway. Elections have demonstrated a continuing trend towards growing pluralism. Nevertheless, there is still much to be done, in particular on inter-ethnic tolerance and reconciliation, the development of effective common institutions with powers clearly delineated from those of the Entities, and an open and pluralistic political life. The growth of organized crime also represents a serious threat.