In the House of Lords, also about BiH: 'Dayton must remain protected'

(Patria) - In the House of Lords of the United Kingdom, a debate was held on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a special focus on political stability, the Dayton Peace Agreement, and the role of the international community in the country.

The debate opened with assessments that Bosnia and Herzegovina remains an area where political tensions are present, with particular emphasis on the activities of Milorad Dodik and his relations with Moscow.

Part of the presentation highlighted that Dodik travels to Russia "to receive instructions," which was used in the debate as an illustration of concern over Russian influence in the region.

Differences between the US and European allies regarding policy towards Bosnia and Herzegovina were also pointed out, especially after changes in Washington's approach and the departure of Christian Schmidt from the position of High Representative.

Some participants assessed that European capitals are not fully convinced that the current US approach is in line with preserving the integrity of the Dayton Agreement.

Government representative B. Chapman emphasized that the United Kingdom acts in coordination with the US and the UN, and remains firmly committed to preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

He also stressed that ahead of the elections, discussions continue on curbing anti-Dayton rhetoric, as well as on countering the rise of Islamophobia and polarizing narratives.

During the debate, Lord Peach raised a question about readiness for potential security scenarios in the event of a deterioration of the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the British government representative responded that activities are carried out through appropriate channels and with a constant commitment to the Dayton framework.

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon raised a question about the period after Schmidt's resignation and the need for the new High Representative to be a strong and credible figure, to which it was responded that it is crucial to find a candidate committed to Dayton.

Baroness Ludford warned of Russian influence and the need for coordination of the United Kingdom with the EU, the US, and the Council of Europe, while the government representative stated that cooperation with international partners continues and that preserving Dayton is a common goal.

Lord Bellingham raised the issue of reforming police structures and a possible unified police system in BiH, noting that such processes would have to be conducted carefully and in accordance with the local context, reports Politicki.ba.