The BiH Constitutional Court ruled in 2011 that the State level Law on Personal Reference Number (JMB Law) must be amended, and after the failure of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly to do so, deleted the disputable provision leaving it to the BiH Parliamentary Assembly to adopt the new one in line with the Constitutional Court’s ruling. It is clear that the issue of JMB must be resolved.  This is an issue which directly affects the newest and youngest citizens and their parents, who are unable to receive personal reference numbers essential for accessing basic services.

The job rests solely with the BiH Parliamentary Assembly. An RS Government directive cannot fill this legal vacuum.

The OHR believes that the deliberate failure of the parties that have entered into Government together to agree and support a workable solution is a regrettable display of irresponsibility. The tactic of “take it or leave it”- taken at the expense of new born children and their parents - only invites further political hostility.

The High Representative has already expressed his deep disappointment over the failure of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly to find a solution to the issue of the Personal Reference Number (JMB). The BiH Parliament cannot continue to fail the citizens. This system has functioned well over the years and serves all the citizens. MP’s must find and adopt a solution in the current State law without further delay.