SDA: Defense funds in BiH budget for 2025 must be significantly increased

(Patria) - SDA demands that the current ruling majority, in accordance with legal deadlines, proceed with determining the fiscal framework and drafting the budget of the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina for 2025, and to ensure a significant increase in funds intended for the equipping and training of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"No one has the right to close their eyes to the processes taking place in neighboring countries, which are intensively and rapidly arming themselves and reactivating, or intend to do so, mandatory military service.

Considering these processes, as well as the general situation in the world, Bosnia and Herzegovina must have an adequate response. This is also an obligation in accordance with Annex 1b of the Dayton Peace Agreement and the Agreement on Sub-regional Arms Control signed in 1998 between the then Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, the Republic of Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina," the SDA statement said.

They add that the imbalance in armament will certainly have political consequences and further encourage policies that act against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and may represent potentially very serious security challenges.

"In addition, the BiH Armed Forces must receive funds that will enable them to equip and train for participation in international peacekeeping missions, and especially for the needs of assisting the civilian population in emergency circumstances caused by natural disasters and catastrophes, such as floods, fires, and earthquakes," the SDA stated.