European Parliament Committee urges faster reforms and political responsibility from Bosnia

MEPs urged political leaders to renew their commitment to EU membership and implement long-overdue reforms immediately, emphasizing that accession efforts must strengthen political cohesion rather than deepen existing divisions. The committee called for an end to obstructionism, politically motivated vetoes, and divisive rhetoric that stall progress. Additionally, the Council of Ministers was urged to appoint a chief negotiator for the EU accession talks.

Political and security challenges highlighted

The report expressed regret over persistent political divisions, hate speech, genocide denial, the glorification of war criminals, secessionist efforts, and state capture, warning that these trends undermine public trust, accelerate the brain drain, and paralyze the nation. Furthermore, MEPs denounced the ongoing engagement between Republika Srpska entity authorities and Russian officials or sanctioned entities, highlighting the associated risks to security and stability. Concerns were also raised regarding foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, particularly from Russia and Serbia, alongside the expanding influence of other external actors.

Preserving stability and advancing the reform agenda

While expressing regret over the resignation of High Representative Christian Schmidt, the committee reiterated its support for the Office of the High Representative and EUFOR Operation Althea, recognizing their ongoing role in preserving peace and stability. The report emphasized that any future transition concerning the Office of the High Representative must fully respect Bosnia's constitutional order, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Rejecting narratives that exploit ethnic tensions, promote historical revisionism, deny genocide, or glorify war criminals, MEPs welcomed the country's reform agenda, noting that political will is essential to secure EU funding and maintain reform momentum.

European Parliament perspective

The rapporteur, Ondrej Kolar (EPP, Czechia), stated: "If Europe is to grow stronger, it must also grow larger, both geographically and politically. At the same time, EU membership cannot be taken for granted. We would welcome Bosnia into the EU, but its efforts are often diluted by excuses or limited capacity to reach agreement even within its own borders. Equally, the EU itself must reflect urgently on whether the time has come to move towards a model of progressive membership for those countries that are genuinely striving to meet the criteria."

The report was adopted with 53 votes in favour, 14 against, and 8 abstentions.