Need for Responsible Political Leadership

OHR has followed reports of recent comments of PM Dodik concerning referendums, self-determination and other issues.

It is important to avoid any confusion on this issue. The legal situation is clear. The Republika Sprska, an entity within the BiH State , has no jurisdiction to organize a referendum on separation. This would be in violation of the BiH Constitution and the Dayton Peace Agreement.

The international community will not allow the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina to be endangered. As the High Representative has made clear in the past, he would not hesitate to use the Bonn Powers if this were necessary to preserve peace and stability.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is not in question now or in the future. However, its ability to function and ensure a decent standard of living for its citizens is in question.

There are only two routes available. The first option is to deliver on reform and other requirements that will move this country toward the EU and NATO and allow it to become a member. These same reforms will over time create jobs and ensure the rule of law is applied.

The second route is not to reform in which case there will be stagnation.

There is no third route. Fruitless discussions on referenda contribute to uncertainty and instability in the country at a time when Bosnia and Herzegovina needs certainty – the certainty that reforms are being delivered.

Like the citizens of BiH the international community expects to see concrete results in the next 100 days. It is these reforms that over time will take BiH and its citizens to the destination they want – security and prosperity as a member of the Euro-Atlantic family.