Arbitrator Williamson: Brčko is a successful example of coexistence that entities should support

SARAJevo, (Patria) - Ambassador Clint Williamson, presiding arbitrator of the Brčko Arbitration Tribunal, arrived on November 10 for a four-day official visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ambassador Williamson visited Brčko, along with Deputy High Representative/Brčko Supervisor Michael Scanlan, where they met with the leaders of the Government and Assembly of Brčko District. After visiting Brčko, Ambassador Williamson and the Supervisor returned to Sarajevo and held a series of meetings, including talks with High Representative Christian Schmidt; President of the Constitutional Court Mato Tadić; COMEUFOR, Major General Alexander Platzer; COMNATO, Brigadier General Eric Folkestad, and with a number of ambassadors and other high-ranking diplomats. In line with his responsibilities as presiding arbitrator, Ambassador Williamson wanted to hear the views of these officials on the current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the extent to which, if at all, this situation has affected or could affect Brčko.

During the meeting with Brčko officials, Ambassador Williamson and the Supervisor emphasized that Brčko is a successful example of post-war reconciliation and coexistence and that the residents of Brčko should not fear a new armed conflict. They stressed that the District authorities must accelerate reforms in the areas of good governance, infrastructure development, and private sector growth, and take steps to combat corruption and political patronage if Brčko is to realize its potential, ensure a prosperous future, and ultimately meet the conditions necessary for the full implementation of the Final Award of the Brčko Arbitration Tribunal.

Ambassador Williamson and the Supervisor emphasized that Brčko District is an example of successful coexistence that the entities are obliged – according to the provisions of the Final Award – to unequivocally support. In this regard, public figures have a responsibility to contribute to peace and reconciliation and should choose their words carefully and responsibly in their public statements.

Ambassador Williamson stated: “Since my appointment, when I was appointed presiding arbitrator by the International Court of Justice in early 2017, I have periodically visited Bosnia and Herzegovina to assess the progress made in the implementation process of the Final Award and to monitor the development of the situation and its potential impact on Brčko. I must say that the recent developments in BiH are very concerning, and that was precisely the reason for this visit. During my stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I reminded all my interlocutors of my ongoing obligation to assess the extent to which all parties respect the provisions of the Final Award, as well as the obligation of the Arbitration Tribunal to act appropriately in the event of serious non-compliance with the provisions of the Final Award.”