Election campaign for 2026 General Elections begins on Friday, September 4

On this occasion, the Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CEC BiH) is appealing to all political entities, candidates, their supporters and the media to strictly comply with the Election Law of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with particular emphasis on the ban on hate speech in the public sphere.

“Hate speech” is any form of public expression or speech that causes or incites hatred, discrimination or violence against any person or group of persons on the basis of race, skin color, nationality, sex or religion, ethnic origin, or any other personal characteristic or orientation that incites discrimination, hostility or violence.

The CEC BiH reminds all political entities that they have the right to conduct their campaigns in a peaceful environment and organize rallies. They are also required to ensure equal promotion of candidates of both sexes in all public appearances and media engagements.

Competent municipal authorities are required to ensure equal treatment for political entities certified to participate in the elections when they request to use public spaces and facilities for campaign purposes, including holding rallies and displaying advertisements, posters, placards and other similar materials.

The Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina warns that it has the authority to sanction violations of the Election Law of BiH, both through fines and by removing candidates from lists or revoking the certification of a political entity.

The Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina calls on all participants in the electoral process to conduct a fair campaign while respecting the law and rules, and urges the media to report fairly and professionally on election activities in accordance with the journalistic code of ethics, the CEC BiH said.