Bar Association of FBiH: We are concerned about increasing pressure on the judiciary, constitutional order and rule of law threatened!

(Patria) - The Bar Association of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina expresses deep concern over the increasing pressures on the judiciary, which represent a serious threat to the constitutional order and the rule of law.

"We particularly highlight the current, unacceptable pressures on the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which represent a direct attempt to undermine the impartiality and integrity of the judiciary. We remind that the independence of the judiciary is one of the foundations of a democratic society and a guarantee for the protection of the rights and freedoms of all citizens," the Association states.

"In this context, we remind that the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the Constitutions of both entities, clearly prescribe that any form of political, institutional or media pressure on the courts and the judiciary as a whole represents a direct attack on the constitutional order and the rule of law. Legal certainty for citizens and equality before the law can only be ensured if the court is protected from influences that undermine its impartiality and professionalism," the Bar Association points out.

They call on all state institutions, political actors and the wider public to jointly engage in strengthening the independence of the judiciary, thereby guaranteeing stability and legal certainty in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"An independent judiciary is not only a legal imperative but also a key prerequisite for the democratic development and integration of our country into European and international structures. The Bar Association of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina remains committed to protecting the rule of law and providing support to all judicial institutions in their obligation and right to act impartially and in accordance with the laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina," concludes the statement of the Bar Association of FBiH.