As Johann Sattler, the Head of the European Union Delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, concludes his mandate, he reflected on his tenure and the challenges ahead. Sattler expressed his regret that an agreement on electoral reform was not reached during his time in office, which he considers his greatest failure.

In his final address, Sattler called on the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to make significant progress on the European path, noting that there has been little movement since March of this year.

Highlighting the steps taken towards EU membership during his mandate, Sattler pointed out that Bosnia and Herzegovina achieved candidate status in 2022 and that the decision to open negotiations was made in March 2023. He emphasized that this progress has finally aligned the country with its neighbors, such as Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia.

However, Sattler also acknowledged the challenges, noting that after the European Council's decision in March, no substantial progress has been made on necessary reforms. He urged the government to adopt the remaining four reform laws and finalize the negotiating team to continue advancing on the EU path.

Reflecting on his five years in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sattler described the country as his second home, expressing his deep connection to the people and the numerous projects initiated during his tenure.