The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (the Mission) strongly condemns any threats, intimidation and targeting of public officials, journalists and their family members, and warns that increasingly inflammatory public discourse risks further undermining public safety, democratic participation and media freedom.
Such threats are unacceptable. They constitute a direct attack on democratic participation, freedom of the media and the right to live free from fear and intimidation. Threats, intimidation, harassment or other pressure against journalists and media organizations, including online, must be promptly and effectively addressed by the competent authorities. Those responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law.
Similarly, while criticism of public officials’ policy statements is a legitimate part of democratic discourse, threats of violence, whether direct or implied, against public officials are unacceptable, undemocratic, and may constitute a criminal offence.
We urge political leaders at every level to refrain from any rhetoric that further inflames tensions and to take active steps to de-escalate the situation. Citizens deserve leaders who choose responsibility over provocation, and dialogue over division.
We call on all institutions responsible for public order and the rule of law to act swiftly and impartially to protect those under threat and to prevent and sanction any incitement to hatred or violence. This includes conduct such as the denial of adjudicated atrocities or the glorification of persons found guilty of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes, where such conduct amounts to incitement.
The Mission strongly condemns the glorification of individuals convicted of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. As the Mission stressed in its 28 August statement “Respect Victims, Don’t Glorify Perpetrators,” those entrusted with public office have a particular responsibility not to use their influence to deepen divisions or cause further pain to victims and survivors.
Respect for judicially established facts, the dignity of victims, freedom of expression and the safety of every individual are not competing principles. They are essential foundations of a democratic society and of lasting peace and reconciliation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
