In line with his mandate under the Dayton Peace Agreement, High Representative Valentin Inzko has submitted his regular report to United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon outlining the status of peace implementation in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the period from 21 October 2013 to 21 April 2014.
The High Representative informed the United Nations that Bosnia and Herzegovina has continued on the downward trajectory of the last eight years, with political leaders failing to make progress on a broad range of issues, including on the conditions for BiH to move forward in the Euro-Atlantic integration processes.
Reporting on the demonstrations that broke out in February over citizens’ frustration with the socio-economic situation, the High Representative characterised the protests as “a call for elected officials and political parties in BiH to change their approach, especially on corrupt patronage networks that underpin the public sector”. He deplored the brief period of violence associated with the beginning of the demonstrations, while making clear that the right to peaceful protest must be supported: “I remain firmly of the view that a pro-active and engaged civil society, which holds elected leaders responsible, is vital for the country’s democratic future.”
The High Representative also warned of a marked increase of statements by officials from the Republika Srpska challenging the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH is guaranteed by the constitution of the country and by international law, including the Peace Agreement. Under the Constitution of BiH, the entities exist as a part of the country and there is no possibility for them to secede. I have reiterated this point on several occasions during the reporting period”, the High Representative told the United Nations.
The 45th report of the High Representative to the UN Secretary-General has been distributed to members of the UN Security Council and is available on the OHR website.
The High Representative will address the UN Security Council on 15 May to brief Security Council members directly on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.