The Peace Implementation Council Steering Board (PIC SB) Political Directors convened on 3 and 4 December 2024 in Sarajevo to evaluate progress related to the General Framework Agreement for Peace (GFAP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH).

Commending the Central Election Commission (CEC) for successfully conducting local elections under new, transparency-enhancing legislation, the PIC SB highlighted the importance of pilot projects for election technology, which demonstrated significant potential to improve electoral integrity. The PIC SB urged BiH authorities to fully support the CEC by ensuring the implementation of the election law, particularly in preparation for the 2026 general elections. This includes providing necessary financial resources and aligning electoral legislation with recommendations from ODIHR, GRECO, and the Venice Commission.

Following the European Council’s decision in March 2024 to open EU accession negotiations with BiH, the PIC SB called on all institutions and political actors to prioritise dialogue and accelerate reforms in line with the European Commission’s recommendations from October 2022. The Steering Board stressed that collaboration on EU accession efforts aligns with the aspirations of BiH citizens and urged swift submission of the reform agenda under the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans.

The PIC SB welcomed the unanimous renewal of the EUFOR/Althea mandate by the UN Security Council on 1 November 2024, underscoring its vital role in maintaining security and stability in BiH.

On state property, the PIC SB reiterated its call for urgent dialogue to adopt State Property legislation as a sustainable resolution to this critical issue, part of the 5+2 Agenda. Delays in addressing state property perpetuate legal uncertainty and hinder vital investments essential for economic development and citizens’ well-being.

The Steering Board strongly condemned the actions of Republika Srpska’s ruling coalition, including ongoing secessionist moves and attacks on BiH’s constitutional and legal order. It emphasised that all actions must align with the GFAP and affirmed that the international community retains tools to uphold the agreement.

Judicial independence was another area of concern. The PIC SB denounced pressures on the judiciary and non-compliance with Constitutional Court decisions, labelling such actions as contrary to the BiH Constitution and international standards. It urged the Republika Srpska National Assembly (RSNA) to fill vacant judicial positions immediately and called on the Federation Parliament to address similar vacancies. Judicial appointments, the PIC SB stated, should be merit-based and apolitical.

The PIC SB stressed the need for a state budget for 2025 to ensure the smooth operation of state institutions, particularly those integral to Euro-Atlantic integration. Adequate resources for these institutions must be prioritised in budget planning.

The Steering Board also addressed longstanding financial and operational challenges affecting public broadcasting and cultural institutions in BiH, urging authorities, particularly the Council of Ministers, to propose necessary legislation to resolve these issues.

Encouraging efforts towards reconciliation, the PIC SB underscored the importance of truth, peace, and justice, urging public officials to end genocide denial and focus on fostering trust and understanding. Education, it noted, plays a pivotal role in bridging divides and strengthening social cohesion—key prerequisites for stability and progress.

The PIC SB reaffirmed its support for the High Representative, cautioning that actions undermining this institution violate Annex 10 of the GFAP, which mandates full cooperation.

The next regular PIC SB meeting is scheduled for 3-4 June 2025.