In Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), there is a constitutional crisis caused by the actions of the leadership of Republika Srpska (RS), but the crisis cannot be resolved by either Brussels or EUFOR, rather by domestic institutions, said Luigi Soreca, ambassador and special representative of the European Union (EU) in BiH, in an interview.
“We cannot replace institutions”
In the interview, Soreca clearly stated:
“We cannot replace domestic authorities. Laws are adopted through legislative procedure, the executive implements them. We are doing everything we can, sometimes I even think – more than we should. Sometimes it really seems that the EU is doing more on BiH’s European integration than the domestic authorities.”
He pointed out the seriousness of the current situation in BiH, especially in the context of the constitutional crisis and the stagnation in reforms. He also emphasized that the international community, although ready to help, cannot and must not take over responsibilities that belong to domestic institutions.
BiH’s European path: What is hindering progress?
Soreca also warned that BiH faces clear conditions it must meet in order to make progress toward the EU.
“Two laws in the field of judiciary and the appointment of the chief negotiator are still unresolved. How can negotiations be conducted without a single voice? We also have the Growth Plan –one billion euros for BiH citizens – which is conditional on progress,” he stated, adding that the EU remains open to BiH, but that domestic leaders must take responsibility:
“We are concerned about the constitutional crisis and the actions of the RS leadership. We call on them to refocus on EU integration.”
On the chief negotiator and the role of EUFOR
When asked whether the EU has a preference regarding the composition of the future coalition, Soreca responded:
“No, the EU wants to see whoever BiH appoints. Whoever is chosen as chief negotiator – it is important that the focus returns to reforms. At the moment, while others in the region are meeting and talking, BiH is lagging behind.”
Speaking about the role of EUFOR, Soreca explained that it is a military mission whose mandate is not to resolve internal political or legal disputes.
“The mandate of EUFOR is determined by the United Nations (UN) Security Council. The mission is focused on maintaining a safe and stable environment, not on enforcing domestic laws or political intervention,” he added.
If June is missed, what next?
Soreca also commented on what will happen if BiH fails to meet the conditions for the European path by June.
“There is no formal deadline, but it would be a shame to waste 18 months due to political deadlock. The conditions are minimal –two laws and one appointment. This can be resolved in a few days if there is political will. The contact between Brussels and domestic actors is constant. As soon as we assess that there is concrete progress, we will organize a new meeting. Also, I expect an upcoming visit from Commissioner Marta Kos, which could give a new impulse to BiH’s European path. The EU remains committed to BiH’s European future. However, we cannot and will not impose solutions. Citizens must demand accountability from their leaders. More than 70% of citizens still want EU membership. It is time the authorities start taking that seriously,” concluded Soreca.
