OSCE: Law passed by the National Assembly of Republika Srpska is contrary to the constitutional order of BiH and undermines the country's security

(Patria) - The Chairperson of the OSCE, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Ian Borg, and the Secretary General of the OSCE, Helga Maria Schmid, on the occasion of the decision of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska (NSRS) to unilaterally transfer competencies from the state to the entity level, with the aim of forming a parallel electoral system in the territory of that entity, issued the following joint statement:

"Such moves are contrary to the constitutional order of Bosnia and Herzegovina, given that the establishment of parallel structures undermines the overall security and stability of the country. The OSCE reiterates its strong support for the Dayton Peace Agreement and the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The steps taken undermine the results achieved in the implementation of key reforms and jeopardize the country's recent progress. Rhetoric and actions that lead to divisions pose a threat to stability and have a detrimental impact on the democratic rights of citizens.

The OSCE calls on the National Assembly of Republika Srpska to withdraw the Election Law adopted on April 19, 2024, from the procedure and calls on all political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina to constructively participate in the work of state institutions, focusing on the implementation of necessary reforms that serve the interests of all citizens."