EU Delegation in BiH on adoption of draft laws on immunity and referendum in the RSNA: Sovereignty of BiH is being called into question

(Patria) - The draft laws on immunity and referendum and citizens' initiative in the Republika Srpska, adopted today in the first reading, are contrary to the EU path of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We call on delegates in the National Assembly of the RS to reconsider and not proceed further with these draft laws, the EU Delegation stated in its reaction.

"The draft law on immunity of the RS reduces the judicial accountability of political representatives, and its retroactive application would call into question legal certainty. As such, its final adoption would affect the rule of law. We recall that, as provided for in Annex 10 of the Dayton Peace Agreement, 'the parties shall fully cooperate with the High Representative.'

Regarding the draft law on referendum and citizens' initiative, the EU is seriously concerned about laws and initiatives in the entity of Republika Srpska that are contrary to the EU path of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including secessionist rhetoric and calling into question the constitutional order of the country. The EU emphasizes the need to maintain the sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitutional order and international identity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Any action directed against these principles will lead to serious consequences.

The EU calls on all political actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina to refrain from provocative and divisive rhetoric, as well as such actions, especially those that call into question the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the country. The EU reiterates its unequivocal commitment to the EU perspective of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a unique, united and sovereign country," the EU Delegation concluded.