US Congressmen Resolute: We Will Not Allow Corrupt Politicians to Jeopardize the Dayton Peace Agreement

(Patria) - US Congresswoman Ann Wagner, Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, together with Congressman Tom Kean, Congresswoman Susan Wild and Congressman Mike Turner issued a statement after previously introducing the Dayton Peace Agreement Compliance Act. This law was passed by the House last year.

- As Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the representative of the largest Bosnian community outside Bosnia and Herzegovina, I know how important it is to maintain stability in the region and to firmly oppose destructive politicians who want to undo years of peace.

We will not allow corrupt politicians in Bosnia, often backed by Putin's regime, to jeopardize the Dayton Agreement and make life even more dangerous for everyone in the region. This law will ensure we impose sanctions on these destabilizing criminals and deter bad actors, including Russia, from gaining a foothold in the region - said Wagner, as reported by VOA.

As the mayor of Dayton during the historic Dayton Peace Agreement in 1995, Congressman Mike Turner says he understands the importance of diplomacy and constructive engagement in resolving conflicts.

- Achieving peace is not easy, but it is something America should support as an advocate for the international order and the rule of law. However, peace agreements are sustainable only if all parties are willing to come to the table.

Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement through sanctions demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the United States to advancing security and preventing violence. By holding accountable those who undermine peace agreements, we send a strong message that the international community will not tolerate actions that prolong conflicts and human suffering - said Turner.

- We must support the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina in protecting their hard-won peace in the face of forces of conflict and sectarianism, while simultaneously making their democracy stronger, more representative, and more inclusive - said Congresswoman Susan Wild.

- Critically, this bill calls on Bosnia and Herzegovina to implement the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights, which require the removal of existing ethnic and religious requirements for holding high political office - an unacceptable barrier for citizens of Jewish and Roma origin, as well as all other citizens who do not fall into the three protected ethnic communities.

I am pleased to work once again with Representative Wagner on this initiative to enable greater opportunities, inclusion, and stability in the region. The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina deserve a government that values and prioritizes unity and democracy.

Upholding the Dayton Peace Agreement through sanctions will put Bosnia and Herzegovina on the right path to protecting its sovereignty, stability, territorial integrity, and multi-ethnic character from malicious actors who seek to undermine the spirit of the Dayton Peace Agreement.

As Chairman of the European Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs, I will continue to fight for peace and stability in Europe and around the world - said Congressman Tom Kean.

The justification of the Law states that:

- The policy of the United States would be to support a unified, sovereign, and multi-ethnic BiH; use sanctions against those who undermine the Dayton Agreement and Bosnian democratic institutions; encourage the EU to join the US in sanctioning Dodik; expose Russia's role in fomenting instability in BiH and jeopardizing multilateral peace efforts; and work to protect the Office of the High Representative.

- It would codify, tailor, and mandate authorities for imposing sanctions on foreign persons and adult family members who undermine the Dayton Agreement or otherwise threaten the security of BiH.

Sanctions must be imposed for:

1. Forming or participating in the formation of parallel secessionist institutions;

2. Violating or in any way obstructing the implementation of the Dayton Agreement, including threats to the Office of the High Representative;

3. Undermining Bosnian democratic institutions.

- It would require robust and regular reporting to establish strong oversight.