Violation of international standards: Sharp reaction from OSCE on plans to open a new school in Jajce

Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH Jonathan Moore criticized the idea of "two schools under one roof" that local authorities in Jajce have been trying to implement in recent months.

In a letter sent to the Prime Minister of the Central Bosnia Canton Tahir Lendo and the Canton's Minister of Education Katica Čerkez, Moore wrote that such an idea violates internationally respected standards and decisions of BiH courts and represents an obstacle to the social and economic development of BiH.

We are publishing Moore's letter in its entirety:

"Dear Prime Minister,
Dear Minister,

You are well aware, from the meetings you have had with me and others, of the numerous strong objections to the phenomenon of "two schools under one roof" in BiH. We have dedicated time and expert resources and worked in partnership with many local communities and higher levels of government to move in the opposite direction: to unite schools, save resources, and improve the quality of education. The concept of "two schools under one roof" violates both internationally respected standards and decisions of BiH courts, and it represents an obstacle to the social and economic development of BiH.

There is no doubt that there are justified frustrations in Jajce, with expressed opposition from some members of the local community to the content of the curriculum and the symbols printed on school certificates.

However, establishing and operating a new school, which in fact represents the creation of the first new case of "two schools under one roof" in the past 15 years, is not a solution nor an acceptable option. Besides being morally and legally objectionable, it would directly oppose the wishes of the students, who have bravely and eloquently raised their voices against division and segregation.

Instead of wasting scarce cantonal resources and risking the credibility and reputation of the Central Bosnia Canton, I must appeal to you not to take any political, administrative, or financial decisions that allow or support the establishment or operation of a new school in Jajce. You have much better ways to seek solutions, such as concrete discussions within your coalition, including discussions on the "Better School" initiative suggested by the Mayor of Jajce Municipality, Mr. Hozan.

I assure you that all of us in the OSCE Mission to BiH are committed to quality education and will continue to work to eliminate segregation and discrimination from schools in BiH. Of course, we cannot do this without the help of the leaders and citizens of this country. I ask you to reconsider your decisions tomorrow, so that they are constructive and leave room for further discussion.

Sincerely,
Jonathan Moore"