2021 – A YEAR FOR ACTION?

Blog by Matt Field, British Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Eric Nelson, Ambassador of the United States of America to Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Two thousand and twenty has passed. Many of us counted the days waiting for the end of one of the strangest years. Of course, the mere change in the calendar does not solve the problems we face, but it is an opportunity for a new beginning. We are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.

Before looking to the future, we will mention one of the highlights of 2020 and the reason why we remain optimistic about Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through the BOLD programs of the US Embassy and the Young Advisors program of the British Embassy, we have met hundreds of positive, smart young people from all over BiH, ready for action. They are already achieving great things, in business and education, as part of civil society, in the public service sector. But they want to do so without the burden of corruption and dysfunctionality that drives many away. With the right opportunities, the future of BiH can truly be bright.

To achieve this progress, friends like the United States of America and the United Kingdom need partners who are willing to do so. We have found them in many places, but not everywhere. We will focus our support on BiH organizations, local groups, and individuals who are truly striving to make a difference.

Returning to 2021, what can we expect and what should we do.

The good news regarding COVID is that vaccines have been found and, hopefully, are coming soon. We are following the decrease in the number of cases in BiH with relief. Light is visible at the end of the tunnel. But this does not mean anyone can relax. By adhering to existing measures – washing hands, wearing a mask, and maintaining distance – we can help protect our loved ones and cross the finish line. And all authorities in BiH must continue to cooperate to ensure healthcare, education, emergency services, and an efficient vaccination process.

The economic impact of the pandemic continues, in BiH and around the world. We must not miss this period of crisis, but rather seize the moment and consider how best to support companies and entrepreneurs, by reducing bureaucratic processes and digitizing services, depoliticizing public enterprises, and increasing transparency in government spending. Recovery must be more inclusive, especially for women and youth. The IMF is offering significant support to BiH, but we believe it is absolutely fair – and that most citizens understand this – that this money should be conditional on precisely these reforms. The steps to join the World Trade Organization have been awaited for too long, which would provide a much-needed boost for businesses.

There will be no elections in 2021. But precisely because of this, we want a serious effort to improve the electoral system. Yes, Mostar recently held its first elections in twelve years, but that was a correction of a deficiency, not a positive reform. Let us remember that we are still waiting for the full implementation of the results of the 2018 elections! The OSCE and the European Court of Human Rights have clearly stated what still needs to be changed. The EU Opinion confirms that all of this must be done. The body of the Parliamentary Assembly responsible for this task must meet and work on this crucial task, so that voters in BiH do not find themselves in the same position in 2022.

At the very top of citizens' concerns (the same applies to us) is the rule of law. How many of us would like to see real progress in this area in 2021? There is no secret here either in terms of the necessary steps – starting with the priorities in the EU Opinion, such as amendments to the Law on the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council, improving public procurement processes, and significant steps against conflicts of interest. We know that there are individuals in the judiciary who want to make a difference, and they need our support. But the ultimate proof will be appropriate investigations, prosecutions, verdicts, and prison sentences.

These difficult reforms become easier when you invite thirty NATO allies to help. The reform process that began in 2019 is an opportunity for BiH to define its reform priorities and outline how the Alliance can help in their fulfillment. These reforms cover everything from defense modernization to better governance and the rule of law, and are complementary to BiH's path to the EU. NATO allies will continue to support BiH's reform priorities in accordance with the BiH-led Reform Program process.

Finally, a few words on the current migration situation. The numbers are significantly lower this year, but the problem seems to be increasing. In the short term, it is in the interest of all BiH citizens that migrants currently in the country are housed safely and humanely, and are not on the streets. BiH authorities need to coordinate their response to the migration crisis and share responsibility fairly across the country.

There is much to be done in the year ahead, more than we have mentioned here. We see no reason why anyone should settle for less than this. The United States and the United Kingdom, as well as many other friends of BiH, are here to help. What we need are partners who are willing, and we hope to find even more such partners in 2021.