In their meeting with Brčko officials, Ambassador Williamson and the Supervisor emphasized that Brčko is a successful example of post-war reconciliation and coexistence, and Brčko residents should not fear another armed conflict. They stressed that District authorities need to accelerate good governance reforms, infrastructure development, and private sector growth and take steps to combat corruption and patronage if Brčko is to fulfil its potential, achieve a prosperous future, and ultimately satisfy the conditions for full implementation of the Brčko Tribunal Final Award.
Ambassador Williamson and the Supervisor pointed out that the Brčko District serves as an example of successful coexistence that the entities are obligated – under the terms of the Final Award – to support unequivocally. In this respect, public figures have a responsibility to contribute to peace and reconciliation and should choose their words carefully and responsibly.
Ambassador Williamson stated: “Since my appointment, in early-2017 by the International Court of Justice, to serve as Presiding Arbitrator, I have visited Bosnia-Herzegovina on a periodic basis to assess progress in implementation of the Final Award and to stay abreast of evolving events and their potential impact on Brčko. I must say that recent events in the country have been very troubling and it is this current situation that prompted my present visit. While in Bosnia-Herzegovina, I have reminded all of my interlocutors of my ongoing responsibility to assess compliance of all parties with the terms of the Final Award, and the obligation of the Arbitral Tribunal to act accordingly should a question of serious non-compliance arise.”