High Representative halts all budget funding for SNSD and United Srpska

"All public funds earmarked for financing these parties at every level of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina will be frozen and redirected to a special account at the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina," Schmidt said.

He explained that the measure aims to support state institutions in countering "the current flagrant attacks by the ruling coalition in Republika Srpska, led by the SNSD and United Srpska, on the fundamental principles of the Constitution and the legal order of Bosnia and Herzegovina."

"The leadership of SNSD and United Srpska is at the forefront of these actions," Schmidt added.

"Their actions are in contradiction with their declared commitment to uphold the provisions of the Dayton Peace Agreement, which was a prerequisite for the certification of these parties in the General Elections of 2022 and 2024. SNSD and United Srpska have continuously instrumentalised the institutions of Republika Srpska to obstruct state institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina from effectively exercising their competences and implementing decisions across the entire territory of the country. The territorial integrity and sovereignty of the state are non-negotiable. Both entities, as well as the Brcko District, have rights guaranteed by the Constitution — but those rights require respect for Dayton."

He also added that Bosnia and Herzegovina does not need fortresses.

"They are also encouraging citizens to commit criminal offences and threatening them with sanctions if they do not comply. Politicians should not be forcing citizens into obedience. People are being threatened with criminal prosecution.

We do not need fortresses in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and those who think otherwise are not acting in the interest of this country."

The High Representative also said he would consider reversing the decision under one condition.

"Any violation of the decision I made today is subject to criminal liability. The decision enters into force immediately. When these parties demonstrate full respect for the Dayton Peace Agreement, I will consider revising the decisions."

He announced that he would visit Camp Butmir this afternoon for a meeting with the EUFOR commander.

Read the full text of Schmidt's decision HERE.