In response to irresponsible politicians encouraging citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) to serve military service in another country, we find it necessary to inform the broader public that Article 51 of the Law on Defense of BiH prohibits BiH citizens residing in BiH, including those with dual citizenship, from serving or training as conscripts in the armed forces of other countries, stated the Ministry of Defense of BiH on Monday.
“We emphasize that any incitement or encouragement to act contrary to the provisions of this article of the law could also constitute a violation of Article 162b of the BiH Criminal Code, which specifies that anyone who publicly distributes or directs a message to the public – particularly through the media – with the intent of inciting others to commit this offense could face imprisonment,“ the statement reads.
It further states that, in the interest of respecting BiH laws, they expect responsible behavior not only from those promoting such views but also from BiH citizens to whom these messages are directed.
“We also expect the relevant authorities and institutions in BiH, responsible for law enforcement, to undertake all necessary measures and legally prescribed actions to ensure compliance with these regulations,” the Ministry of Defense stated.
Milorad Dodik, president of the BiH entity Republika Srpska(RS), expressed his approval of Serbia’s decision to reinstate military service and said he is “seeking a way for young men from RS to participate in regular military service in Serbia.”
