The Situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and its Wider Implications for European and Global Security

2025 marks the 30th anniversary since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement as well the genocide in Srebrenica. In commemoration, United Nations General Assembly resolution A/78/L.67/Rev.1 of 23 May 2024 designates 11 July as an International Day of Reflection and Commemoration.

As Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to face political instability and challenges to the implementation of the High Representative’s mandate, the voice of the High Representative remains critical at the national, regional and international levels.

The meeting underscored that there remains a clear role for the High Representative in safeguarding the interests of Bosnia and Herzegovina.  In this regard, the high-level discussion highlighted several key messages, summarized below:

• Ethnic divisions, challenges to electoral rules, the rule of law, and representation of government and political polarization continue to pose risks to the Dayton Agreement and Bosnia and Herzegovina's stability. Notably, recent separatist rhetoric and recurring threats of dissolution from authorities undermine this constitutional framework (leading to a de-facto succession)
• The key question of European integration is at stake - with 2.8 million people and a rich diaspora, the integrity and stability of the region is of vital interest for Europe and its neighbouring regions.
• The anniversary of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide and the Dayton Agreement is a reminder of the devastating consequences of sectarian animosity and the urgent need for national reconciliation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• The Office of the High Representative inherently is a temporary international institution, holding a clear and legitimate mandate in safeguarding the interests of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• There is a political crisis, but not yet indications for a security crisis. By supporting the Dayton Agreement, constructive dialogue and the people’s right to decide the future, the international community still has a limited window of opportunity to help guide the country towards a stable path.