OHR related Interviews

What is important now it to keep a clear head. I want to appeal to every citizen in BiH to have faith in their institutions and show the necessary restraint in their reactions to prevent a rise in tensions.

I think that there is a consensus in the country about Euro-Atlantic integration, that the EU is a common goal and that the EU now has a key role in reforms, together with local politicians. But Dayton remains the constitutional framework for this country.

The problems that affect peoples’ lives are obvious. I’m talking about lack of jobs, a judicial system that does not apply the law equally and fairly to all, rampant corruption which serves a powerful minority, unacceptable delays in completing the reforms needed for Euro-Atlantic integration.

Last February’s protests should have been a wake-up call for politicians in Bosnia and Herzegovina that something fundamental needs to change, that citizens want their elected representatives to do more than just fight for their own personal and party privileges.

It would be really nice to see more women in the governing institutions. Similarly, it would be good to see the government making a decision to reduce the number of ministries and administrations in general.

Whoever forms the incoming governments must start delivering on what they promised to their voters during the election campaign to address their real life problems .

I believe that every election is important, but I sense that these Elections are especially crucial because we need these Elections to be a turning point after which we will see a new kind of politics where the interests of the citizens and the country as a whole are put first .

My priorities are those of the OHR. This means, first and foremost, ensuring full compliance with the Dayton Agreement, but also working on important elements of that Agreement, such as the rule of law and the functionality of the structures and institutions that enable this country and its citizens to get back to work and to build a better future [...]

When I spoke recently of this crossroads for BiH I meant that despite the current difficulties, there is also a choice to be made for the future of the country, a great opportunity .

My expectations of voters are very simple – that they turn up at the ballot boxes on 12 October and vote. My message is: if you don’t vote, you let others decide your future for you. It is as simple as that .