The Office of the High Representative believes that the rationale given for the formation of the reserve police force of Republika Srpska remains unclear, the OHR responded to Fena’s request for comment on the announcement of the formation of the reserve police force in this entity.
“Statements by the RS Minister of Interior suggest that the purposes for which the reserve police force is being formed may include, among other things, border and migration management, as well as counter-drone operations, which are matters within the jurisdiction of several different institutions that require coordinated and comprehensive responses at the state level,” the response states.
Instead of launching unilateral initiatives such as the formation of the reserve police force, the OHR believes that authorities at all levels should prioritize cooperation aimed at improving the security of citizens and maintaining a safe environment. Immigration, refugee and asylum policy is a constitutional responsibility of state institutions and their capacities should be strengthened.
“The proposed formation of the reserve police force and the reactions that followed do not contribute to strengthening peace and stability in BiH. Given the historical context of the reserve police force in BiH, it is not surprising that this initiative generates mistrust. In this light, we strongly urge the RS authorities to refrain from further action on this legislative proposal and instead engage in dialogue with their counterparts at the state level and within the Federation of BiH,” OHR told Fena.
