The British Parliament discussed the political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The discussion was attended by numerous MPs, whose questions were answered by Stephen Doughty, the British Minister for European and North American Affairs. The discussion was held with a special emphasis on the secessionist moves of the President of the RS, Milorad Dodik.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is also in the focus of Great Britain. More specifically, the political and security challenges that are far from negligible. Stephen Doughty, the Minister for European Affairs, reiterates the well-known position: Great Britain is fully committed to the Dayton Peace Agreement, Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign and independent country. Dodik’s moves are strongly condemned.
“We strongly condemn the secessionist moves of the President of the RS, Milorad Dodik, which seriously threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Such moves are unconstitutional and dangerous for those living in the RS, whom he claims to protect,” said Doughty.
The RSNA’s moves represent a significant escalation of Dodik’s secessionist policies. As much as Dodik accelerates attacks on the state, he also increases the threat to international peace and security. The High Representative’s jurisdiction is unquestionable. And ignoring the decisions of the courts of Bosnia and Herzegovina undermines the rule of law.
“The United Kingdom is clear: the High Representative’s jurisdiction is undeniable and ignoring the independent decisions of the judiciary of Bosnia and Herzegovina undermines the rule of law,” Doughty added.
And RS officials continue to ignore the decisions of the Constitutional Court, but also the laws of the state. A new entity constitution has also been proposed, which is a direct violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. Conservative support has not been lacking.
“Dodik’s actions do not serve the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including those living in RS. The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina need political leaders who will focus on adopting reforms and building an inclusive future, rather than exacerbating tensions and reinforcing secessionist views,” Doughty stressed.
“The United Kingdom has been a reliable supporter of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s democratic and pluralistic path for many years, as well as a reliable promoter of security in the Western Balkans,” said Priti Patel, a Conservative MP in the UK Parliament.
James MacCleary of the Liberal Democrats went a step further in his demands. He believes that the United Kingdom must commit to the EUFOR mission. He did not hide his concern that the United Kingdom, despite warnings, has ignored the activities of the President of the RS, Milorad Dodik, especially given the pronounced Russian influence and support.
“What we have seen from Russia in Georgia, Moldova, Romania, the Baltic States and now the Western Balkans – is nothing short of hybrid warfare,” said Emily Thornberry, a Labour MP in the UK Parliament.
“Dodik’s latest defiance of international authorities, rejecting the legal orders of the international peace envoy, is just the latest act in his coordinated effort to undermine the Dayton Agreement and regional stability in the Balkans. It is clear that the UK has turned its back on Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said James MacCleary, a Liberal Democrat MP in the UK Parliament.
The aim of Russian influence in Bosnia and Herzegovina is to undermine Euro-Atlantic integration. The UK, Dauti stressed, will remain committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina and will not turn its back, politically or militarily.
“We continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership, through joint training of the armed forces of Great Britain and Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Doughty.
British parliamentarians also expressed concern about Dodik’s denial of the Srebrenica genocide and his attendance at the Jerusalem conference. The debate ended with a call for political leaders in the region to focus on building a stable future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. And the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina were told that Great Britain remains committed to supporting peace and stability in our country.
Photo: Federalna TV
