BiH Foreign Minister: OSCE at 'crucial crossroads' amid global instability

Konakovic is attending the session at the invitation of the current OSCE Chairperson, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen. He emphasised the essential importance of the OSCE’s ability to convene, mediate, and reaffirm the Organisation’s fundamental principles. He welcomed the recently brokered agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, expressing hope that it would pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

The Minister cautioned that the security landscape across the entire OSCE area remains extremely sensitive. He highlighted that the war in Ukraine, coupled with hybrid threats, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and humanitarian crises, continues to pose a severe challenge to stability and the rules-based order promoted by the Organisation.

Konakovic specifically referenced the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, noting that the images from the territory depict civilian killings, child suffering, a deepening humanitarian catastrophe, and an extremely fragile ceasefire.

Addressing the situation in Bosnia, he stressed that maintaining peace remains a shared international responsibility, underscoring that the continued presence of international partners is vital. He particularly emphasised that BiH’s European path is now more crucial than ever, arguing that support for pro-European forces assists the country in safely advancing towards full integration.

He simultaneously warned of broader global challenges, including economic pressures, energy insecurity, and climate challenges, which further strain societies, as well as the concerning trend of weakening multilateral diplomacy. "Where dialogue should be expanding, it is narrowing," he stated, stressing that recognising these challenges must be the initial step toward reform and restoring trust.

Regarding priorities for 2026, Konakovic highlighted the necessity of strengthening dialogue and transparency, revitalising OSCE mechanisms, and enhancing the Organisation's institutional and field capacities. He commended Finland's activities and efforts during its Chairmanship this year, including the “Helsinki +50” process, and congratulated Switzerland on taking over the Chair in 2026, offering full support.

"The challenges ahead of us are difficult, but not insurmountable," Konakovic concluded. "The OSCE has the experience, mandate, and tools to contribute to peace and stability. What we now need is renewed commitment. Our way forward requires the courage to listen, compromise, and recommit to dialogue even in moments of greatest tension."