EU parliamentarians regret Schmidt's resignation and condemn cooperation between RS authorities and Russian officials

(Patria) - The European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) today reiterated its support for Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU path, calling for faster reforms, stronger democratic institutions and political accountability, reports N1.

In the report adopted today, AFET members confirmed their support for BiH's accession to the European Union based on unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

They also called for the implementation of reforms to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law, fight corruption and organised crime, and guarantee fundamental rights for all citizens.

Members of the European Parliament called on political leaders to renew their commitment to EU membership and implement long-awaited reforms without delay.

They emphasise that accession efforts should strengthen political cohesion, not deepen divisions.

They also call for an end to obstructionism, politically motivated vetoes and divisive rhetoric that hinder progress, and call on the Council of Ministers of BiH to appoint a chief negotiator for EU accession negotiations.

MEPs regret the years of political divisions, hate speech, genocide denial, glorification of war criminals and secessionist activities, warning that these trends undermine public trust, accelerate brain drain and paralyse the country.

The report condemns the continued cooperation between the authorities of the Republika Srpska and Russian officials and sanctioned entities, highlighting the risks to the security and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Furthermore, Members of the European Parliament express concern over foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, particularly from Russia and Serbia, as well as the growing influence of other external actors.

Expressing regret over the resignation of High Representative Christian Schmidt, they reiterate their support for the Office of the High Representative (OHR) and the EUFOR Althea operation, recognising their continued role in preserving peace and stability.

They also emphasise that any future transition regarding the OHR must fully respect the constitutional order, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

They reject narratives that exploit ethnic tensions, promote historical revisionism, deny genocide or glorify war criminals.

They welcome Bosnia and Herzegovina's reform programme and call for its swift implementation, stressing that political will is crucial for securing EU funding and maintaining reform momentum.

- If Europe wants to become stronger, it must also expand - both geographically and politically. At the same time, EU membership cannot be taken for granted.

We would welcome Bosnia and Herzegovina into the EU, but its efforts are often diluted by excuses or limited capacity to reach agreements even within its own borders.

Likewise, the EU itself must urgently consider whether the time has come to move towards a model of progressive membership for those countries that genuinely strive to meet the criteria - warned rapporteur Ondrej Kolar (EPP Czech Republic).

The report was adopted with 53 votes in favour, 14 against and 8 abstentions. The report will be submitted for a vote in the European Parliament as a whole.