The Ambassador of the Netherlands to BiH, Jan Waltmans, on Friday condemned the decision of the BiH entity Republika Srpska to block state institutions and to implement the conclusions of the RS National Assembly from December 2021 on the transfer of competencies, expressing support for the introduction of sanctions in response to ‘RS’ unconstitutional steps.’

“Unconstitutional steps of Republika Srpska, RS blockade of state institutions and lack of reforms will have consequences. E.g. decrease of EU/international assistance can be expected. Other steps considered. Citizens of BiH deserve sound policies and functioning institutions,” Waltmans said.

At the 24th special session of the Republika Srpska National Assembly (RSNA) held on December 10, 2021, the MPs adopted a Declaration on Constitutional Principles and four pieces of information with conclusions on the transfer of competencies from the BiH to the entity level. The Declaration was not supported by opposition parties in the entity.

The RSNA adopted the Information on the transfer of competencies from the Republika Srpska to the level of BiH and instructed the RS Government to send laws and other regulations to the RSNA for consideration and adoption, which will enable the smooth functioning of the RS.

According to the above conclusions, laws and other regulations transferring competencies from the RS to BiH institutions will not be applicable on the territory of the RS from the day the laws and other regulations referred to enter into force.