EU's Wigemark: EU provided EUR 1.5 mn for migrants in Bosnia

The EU’s official said he arrived in this region to get informed about the current situation, noting that the Union ensured EUR 1.5 million for the humanitarian aspect of the situation concerning the migrants, which will be utilised by the International Organisation for Migrations (IOM) and the UNHCR.

The Una-Sana Canton, Bosnia's westernmost region bordering Croatia, has been struggling with the increasing number of illegal migrants who were finding a temporary shelter there on their way to the final destinations in the western Europe. According to the Bosnia's Service for Foreigners' Affairs, since the start of the year, 8,930 illegal migrants have arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A vast majority of them have expressed their intention to formally request asylum but a few have done so.

Una-Sana Canton Prime Minister Husein Rosic warned that up to 40 new illegal migrants come to the region every day and that half of them possess no personal documents.

“I informed Wigemark about the overall situation and I hope he can help in solving of this huge problem. I don’t understand some statements of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s politicians, which may be dismissed tomorrow already. However, I hope for a soon and positive outcome of this situation,” stressed Rosic.

EU’s Wigemark called for the patience of citizens and said Bosnia and Herzegovina must urgently improve border capacities.