Wigemark on October 2nd: A democratic, credible, and inclusive electoral process is needed

Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark, Head of the European Union Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH, on the occasion of the local elections in BiH on October 2nd, 2016, stated that citizens in BiH will vote, which is an example of democracy in action, as well as a way to promote public accountability.

- The European Union encourages all citizens to go to the polls and support the parties and candidates they believe will most effectively advocate for the issues that are important to them and their communities.

I want to emphasize the need for a democratic, credible, and inclusive electoral process. Preserving the integrity of the electoral process, in accordance with international standards and best practices, is of utmost importance. These elections will be monitored by international and domestic observers accredited by the Central Election Commission of BiH, including the coalition "Under a Magnifying Glass", a joint initiative of six non-governmental organizations from BiH, with 3,000 observers who will cover every other polling station.

The European Union welcomes the work of election observers, which aims to ensure free and fair elections and point out any electoral irregularities. We call on all political actors and the election administration to treat observers in a professional and fair manner, in accordance with the Election Law, and to refrain from any form of pressure or intimidation.

In response to citizens' demands for change and closer ties with the European Union, Bosnia and Herzegovina has recently achieved a very important milestone in the European integration process. There is a solid foundation for further progress, and the country's leadership at all levels should focus on the overall issues related to the European integration process. Voters expect the local political leaders elected on Sunday to bring much-needed socio-economic improvements, stimulate local development, and maintain the momentum that will enable Bosnia and Herzegovina to make consistent progress towards the European Union - Wigemark said.