Bosnia urges EU consistency following Serbian officials' role in war criminal's funeral

The discussions focused on foreign policy, security, and the region's shared European future. Minister Konakovic reaffirmed that EU membership remains a strategic goal and key foreign policy priority for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Addressing recent developments in Serbia, Konakovic drew attention to the participation of senior Serbian government officials in commemorative and funeral events for convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic, as well as President Aleksandar Vucic’s public defense of the state's actions. He emphasised that this is not a bilateral dispute over historical interpretations, noting that Mladic was final-convicted by international courts for genocide and war crimes, and that the International Court of Justice found Serbia breached its obligations under the Genocide Convention to prevent the Srebrenica genocide and hand over Mladic.

Konakovic stressed that Bosnia’s stance does not assign collective guilt to the Serb people, given that criminal responsibility is individual. Instead, concern lies with public authorities glorifying a convicted perpetrator, humiliating victims, and undermining regional stability actions that must be assessed within the context of EU integration and core European values.

Highlighting Bosnia’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy throughout 2025 and 2026, Konakovic described this alignment as a strategic choice rather than a technical requirement. He called on the EU to maintain a credible enlargement process, applying consistent standards that distinguish between partners advancing integration and those undermining democratic principles. Additionally, Konakovic highlighted the role of EUFOR ALTHEA in maintaining stability and supported the continuation of its mandate.