Shameful ignorance of Minister Helez: Denied ban on service in foreign armies on public service

By: Amina Čorbo-Zećo

Unacceptably often, appointed officials in Bosnia and Herzegovina display a lavish ignorance of matters and laws they should know by heart according to their position. The latest example came from the Minister of Defense of BiH, Zukan Helez, who, while a guest on BHRT, spoke about BiH citizens with dual citizenship serving in foreign armies.

Although the host clearly stated in her question that participation of BiH citizens in foreign armed forces is prohibited by law, Helez stated:

"Well, you see, whoever has citizenship has the right to serve in the military in that country. However, once they go, they cannot be members of the BiH Armed Forces here. I am of the opinion that people should choose where they go. This primarily applies to young members of the Croatian and Serb peoples," said Helez.

However, Minister Helez's claim is completely contrary to current legal regulations. Article 51 of the Law on Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina explicitly prohibits the engagement of BiH citizens in foreign armed forces.

"Citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina whose place of residence is in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including those with dual citizenship, are prohibited from serving in the military and undergoing training as recruits in the armed forces of other countries."

The law also clearly states that members of the Armed Forces of BiH cannot be members or recruited by armed or paramilitary formations of other countries.

In addition, Article 23 of the Law on Citizenship of BiH provides for the possibility of revoking citizenship from persons who, despite the legal prohibition, voluntarily serve in foreign armed forces.



Such public statements by Minister Helez, which directly conflict with the law that his ministry is supposed to respect and implement, further erode public trust in institutions and the seriousness of state authorities.