Holtzapple during visit to West Herzegovina Canton and Mostar encouraged religious leaders to use their influence to help de-escalate tensions

(Patria) - Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, visited the West Herzegovina Canton (ZHK) and Mostar today, where he met with high-ranking cantonal officials and religious leaders.

During the meetings, discussions focused on the fight against corruption, the security situation, and the importance of dialogue for strengthening trust and the ability to overcome tensions, including in the run-up to elections.

At meetings held with the Prime Minister of ZHK, Predrag Čović, the Minister of Justice, Administration and Digital Transformation, Vjekoslav Lasić, and the Speaker of the ZHK Assembly, Ivan Jelčić, Holtzapple welcomed the Government's continuous progress in advancing anti-corruption reforms.

This includes the implementation of the previous Anti-Corruption Strategy, as well as its commitment to adopting a new strategy for the period from 2026 to 2030.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of establishing an independent and professional anti-corruption office with a strong mandate, calling for concrete steps towards its operationalization, including the necessary legal, technical, and logistical prerequisites.

Holtzapple also encouraged the ZHK Government to continue providing support to schools in the ongoing implementation of curricular reform in primary schools and gymnasiums.

Regarding security issues, Holtzapple met with the Minister of Internal Affairs, Mladen Bebek, and Police Commissioner, Ivan Brkić, to discuss the current security environment and recent incidents and trends that could affect stability and public trust.

He praised the Ministry's efforts aimed at strengthening the security of journalists, including the appointment of a contact person responsible for this issue, and expressed readiness to continue cooperation during 2026, particularly by supporting Ministry staff in building their capacities.

Holtzapple also visited the Žitomislić Monastery and met with religious leaders, including Abbot Danilo Pavlović, Mostar Mufti Salem ef. Dedović, and the first Mostar priest and Dean of the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Duško Kojić.

In these discussions, he encouraged religious leaders to use their influence to help de-escalate tensions and promote mutual respect and dialogue, especially in the pre-election period when social and political circumstances can become more tense.

He highlighted the important role of all actors in society, especially religious leaders, in preserving peace and stability.

This visit was an opportunity to emphasize the OSCE Mission to BiH's commitment to continue supporting reform processes, strengthening institutions, and improving dialogue among communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.