€11.2 million fingerprint devices out of service — elections not possible without new procurement
The 360 Degrees episode on October 15, 2026 said the Dermalog contract has expired and a temporary solution exists only for Brvenica.
An episode of the television magazine 360 Degrees broadcast on October 15, 2026 on MRT 1 reported that the country’s biometric fingerprint machines — devices bought for €11.2 million — are no longer in operation because the contract with Dermalog has expired and there is currently no funding for a replacement procurement.
Temporary fixes, but no nationwide readiness
The programme said a temporary arrangement has been put in place to allow voting in the municipality of Brvenica, where six candidates are standing for mayor, but that the existing system is not ready to support elections across the whole country without a new purchase.
According to the broadcast, the Brvenica vote will be watched not only as a local contest but also as a gauge of party ratings and potential shifts in coalition partnerships.
The episode also examined administrative accountability, asking how reports of misuse of official vehicles bearing red-yellow licence plates are being handled and whether greater visibility of those cars has led to greater responsibility.
In addition, 360 Degrees featured a discussion on EU enlargement as a security issue for Europe and the Western Balkans, with Ruben Johnston from the Brussels initiative "Western Balkans 2030" joining the conversation. The show concluded with a segment titled "Sabotage."
Photo: press material from the event
