Valentin Inzko: Focus in 2015 must be on sustainability, speed and the future

High Representative in BiH Valentin Inzko wrote a column about BiH in 2015, also analyzing the outgoing year, reports the Bosnian news agency Patria.

- 2014 could have been better for Bosnia and Herzegovina. In February, the frustrations and anger of citizens living in extremely difficult conditions were reflected through protests that erupted across the country. We had a brief period in which bitterness turned into violence, but by far the most significant aspect of these protests is reflected in the fact that they were mostly peaceful and that during subsequent gatherings, citizens organized themselves and formulated demands and programs that pointed the way to overcoming the difficulties in which this country currently finds itself. In other words, citizens did what many of their elected representatives failed to do.

Then came the floods in May, which had direct and catastrophic consequences across the country, and this was a major blow to an already fragile economy. The consequences of the floods are still being felt. And this time, citizens did what many of their elected representatives did not. They united. Ordinary people and local communities across the country spontaneously organized together to help each other rebuild, regardless of their nationality or place of residence. Many showed their boundless kindness when it was most needed.

The October general elections are behind us. Those in political office should follow the example of the citizens and show the same determination to jointly solve the problems everyone faces, especially when it comes to the economy, for the benefit of all. For this to happen, elected leaders need to understand that change is imperative. When designing, creating and implementing their plans, governments at all levels should keep the following in mind:

- All activities, in any area and at any level, should be sustainable;

- All activities should be carried out quickly and without delay;

- All activities should be future-oriented.

For this to truly happen, the process of forming legislative bodies and governments – which has progressed significantly more than was the case at this time four years ago – must be completed, and the new authorities must get down to work.

As I said after the December meeting of the Peace Implementation Council, it is no secret what needs to be done. There is strong support for a series of economic initiatives that could have a positive effect. A significantly faster response to the floods is also needed, so that those who remain most vulnerable receive help and the necessary measures are taken to prevent and mitigate the consequences of future natural disasters of this kind.

In addition, there must be serious and intensified efforts to combat the terrible corruption that prevents Bosnia and Herzegovina and its entities from making real progress. This means further strengthening the judicial system so that corrupt politicians and bureaucrats, as well as well-connected criminals, can be held accountable.

As for young people, the future of this country, the elected leaders of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the parliaments will need to do more to reduce youth unemployment and decisively embark on education reform aimed at improving standards, eliminating segregation and ensuring inclusiveness. In 2015, authorities at all levels should also respect and implement court decisions and support the rule of law. For example, I expect full implementation of the Constitutional Court's decision for Mostar, where Mostar remains a unique, coherent, multi-ethnic unit of local self-government, with a certain level of local jurisdiction/administration below the city level.

In all these areas, progress is possible if elected leaders focus on practical governance. The recent elections and the New Year offer a fresh start in 2015. Elected leaders should implement constructive and realistic policies in the interest of all citizens. If they do so, they will have willing partners in the international community.