OHR Press Releases

As a strong advocate of the freedom of speech and the freedom of the media, that are essential to any democracy, the OHR reiterates that political and institutional leaders have a responsibility to foster an atmosphere conducive to independent and professional work of the media without fear and political pressure.

The High Representative Christian Schmidt has today issued a Notice on the Application of his Order from 12 April 2022 to the RS Law on Immovable Property Used for Functioning of Public Authority, published in the Official Gazette of Republika Srpska on 20 February 2023.

High Representative Christian Schmidt amended the Law on the Center for the Srebrenica-Potočari Memorial and Cemetery for the Victims of the 1995 Genocide, thereby adjusting a previous High Representative’s decision in order to facilitate the work of the Memorial Center. The adjustment will allow for unspent funds originally assigned for burials to [...]

The Office of the High Representative welcomes the fact that the FBiH Parliament, with overwhelming majority in both houses, appointed the President and two Vice Presidents of the Federation of BiH, making an important step toward full implementation of election results and respect of the will of the voters.

Presiding Arbitrator of the Arbitral Tribunal for Brčko, Ambassador Clint Williamson, visited Brčko and Sarajevo this week and met with local officials to discuss compliance with the Brčko Final Award, reform initiatives and priorities of Brčko authorities, as well as the overall political environment in BiH.

On the occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day High Representative Christian Schmidt attended the Central Commemorative Academy organized by the Sarajevo Jewish Community.

Behind you is a turbulent year with intense public discussions and a general election. An exciting and promising new year is in front of you.

Commenting on the announced public celebrations on 9 January in the RS, High Representative Christian Schmidt reminded the public that the BiH Constitutional Court in a number of its decisions addressed the non-compatibility of designation of this date as the Day of the RS with the BiH Constitution and clearly determined it unconstitutional.

High Representative Christian Schmidt visited Bijeljina on Tuesday, where he met with representatives of the local community to learn about the socio-economic outlook of this part of BiH, as well as the needs and challenges of the local population, in particular displaced persons, returnees and persons from vulnerable groups.