Editorial boards of BHRT call for urgent action from OHR and PIC over financial crisis

In the letter, the editorial boards note that BHRT is currently in a highly vulnerable position that could lead to shutdown, due to political blockades and the neglectful attitude of its founders and the executive authorities.

They also emphasize that the solution is clear and feasible, but requires urgent and decisive action.

"It is urgent that you act swiftly and decisively in the interest of all citizens of BiH so that BHRT can continue to perform the functions prescribed by law. Any further delay in resolving these issues represents direct complicity in the possible shutdown of BHRT. Failing to act in this situation is equivalent to a deliberate and active attempt to destroy the Public Service of BiH, which the BiH authorities themselves established, mandated, and thus assumed the obligation to protect," the letter states.

They call for the urgent reinstatement of the RTV fee collection system through a single account as the only sustainable and fair financing model, as well as the introduction of legal mechanisms that would prevent fee evasion and establish clear penalties for non-payment.

The boards warn that shutting down BHRT would present not only a financial and administrative problem, but also a security issue.

"This is a serious threat to the state, the democratic order, democratic processes, the citizens' right to information, and the international reputation of BiH; consequently, it is a threat to security in the region," they stressed.

The editorial boards urged OHR and PIC members to convene an urgent, expanded meeting with BHRT’s General Directorate, noting that any further postponement in addressing the issue leads directly toward the shutdown of the only state-level public broadcasting service in BiH.