Schmidt warns UN of unprecedented attacks on peace agreement

(Patria) - High Representative Christian Schmidt submitted his regular report to the United Nations Secretary-General, outlining events relevant to the implementation of the General Framework Agreement for Peace in BiH in the period from April 16 to October 15, 2023.

As the ultimate authority in the area of ​​competence, the High Representative warned of unprecedented attacks on the Peace Agreement and the constitutional and legal order of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including the High Representative and the Constitutional Court of BiH - as their protectors.

He emphasized that the responsibility for the attacks lies with the authorities of Republika Srpska, led by President Milorad Dodik, who is under international sanctions for threatening the Peace Agreement.

Schmidt decisively rejected misinterpretations of the Dayton Agreement in RS that serve secessionist goals, including claims that deny the continuity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and misrepresent its structure.

- The state of Bosnia and Herzegovina is not a union of states, nor a confederation. There is only one state on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and that is Bosnia and Herzegovina - emphasized the High Representative.

He stated that instruments remain available to the international community to counter threats to the Peace Agreement. These instruments must be maintained and strengthened.

The report also lists steps taken to improve the institutional functionality of Bosnia and Herzegovina and progress towards EU integration as positive achievements.

Schmidt informed the members of the Security Council that during the reporting period, the number of violent attacks on returnees increased and that corruption remains widespread.

There are still many challenges related to adapting to European and international standards, including those in the areas of democracy, rule of law, economy, and social policy.

The High Representative will present his next regular report to the UN Security Council in May 2024.

The full text of the High Representative's report is available on the website www.ohr.int.