OHR and EU: What happened at Zlatište is unacceptable

As the OHR has pointed out many times, religious symbols must not be used to intentionally incite inter-ethnic tension. Moreover, associations and religious communities should work towards reconciliation, it was announced today from the Office of the High Representative regarding the erection of a memorial cross at Zlatište above Sarajevo, reports the BiH news agency Patria.

- We expect the competent authorities to ensure full implementation of all relevant legal regulations in this case as soon as possible, so that tensions do not further increase. What happened at Zlatište is unacceptable, as it does not meet even the minimal conditions. The authorities of Republika Srpska should immediately take measures to preserve the rule of law and a safe environment - it is stated in the statement signed by Eldar Subašić, Head of the OHR Press Service.

The European Commission in BiH also reacted.

- Leaders and political actors in BiH should always support reconciliation and the rule of law. This act undermines reconciliation and the rule of law. We therefore call on the authorities of RS to act quickly to ensure compliance with relevant laws, it is stated in the statement of the Delegation of the European Commission in BiH.