OSCE Mission Chief in Livno and USK Cantons, Topics Include Governance, Anti-Corruption, and Reconciliation

(Patria) - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, paid a two-day visit to Livno and Una-Sana Canton (USK), where he met with political leaders, local government officials, civil society actors, and community representatives.

The visit reaffirmed the Mission's strong commitment to supporting good governance, democratic processes, the rule of law, human rights, and trust-building throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Holtzapple began his visit to Livno with a meeting with the Prime Minister of Livno Canton, Ivan Vukadin, discussing the improvement of firearms legislation in line with international standards, increasing transparency in concession laws, and enhancing the work of the Anti-Corruption Office.

The two leaders also touched upon preparations for the 2026 elections, which include measures to strengthen electoral integrity and political cooperation within the canton.

In Glamoč, the Ambassador met with Mayor Nebojša Radivojša to acknowledge the municipality's ongoing cooperation with the Mission, including the joint initiative of the Council of Europe, EU, OSCE, and UN titled "We Can Do Better".

Discussions emphasized inclusive local governance, strong inter-community relations, and the importance of adequately staffed Social Work Centers to ensure effective service delivery.

During a meeting in Glamoč with local representatives from education, culture, society, and civil society, Ambassador Holtzapple praised their active role in the aforementioned trust-building initiative "We Can Do Better" and reiterated the Mission's support for inclusive local development and civic participation in this mixed community.

In Bihać, Holtzapple congratulated the Prime Minister of USK, Mustafa Ružnić, on his recent appointment and discussed key government priorities, including anti-corruption activities and the status of the draft Property Declaration Law.

He also met with Mayor Elvedin Sedić to discuss local governance challenges such as environmental protection of the Una River, sustainable development, and the provision of social services, as well as the lack of basic living conditions for returnees in areas around Bihać.

The Ambassador also met with Adela Tabaković, Head of the USK Anti-Corruption Office, to affirm strong support for the Office's independence and professionalism, focusing on the implementation of anti-corruption measures and legislation at the cantonal level.

Holtzapple also spoke with Vahidin Omanović and Mevludin Rahmanović from the Center for Peacebuilding (CIM) in Sanski Most about key ongoing initiatives for human rights, youth empowerment, and dialogue.

Ways to strengthen transitional justice activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina were also discussed.

At a meeting with the inter-entity association "Hikers Without Prejudice" at the Kanjon Mountain Lodge, the Ambassador praised their work in building and strengthening bridges across entity borders and reiterated the Mission's commitment to continued cooperation.

During the visit, Holtzapple met with teams from Radio Livno and RTV Sana, affirming the Mission's strong commitment to media freedom and support for professional journalism.

Productive dialogues have paved the way for continued cooperation in environmental protection, social service provision, and trust-building initiatives.

The visit once again highlighted the Mission's dedication to supporting transparent and accountable institutions and fostering reconciliation and stability throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.