International peace envoy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, High Representative Christian Schmidt extended his best wishes for 2023 to all people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stressing that an exciting and promising new year lies ahead of them, after a turbulent one.

He recalled that the past year was also marked with “intense public discussion and a general election,” and that the country was granted the candidate status for the membership in the European Union.

“Though some die-hard sceptics tried to water the importance of this step down, I am convinced: this is a unique opportunity. The swift formation of governments on all levels would show that it is possible to achieve goals, and offer a clear sign that at least some politicians are willing to seize this opportunity and work to advance the country on the path towards membership in the European Union,” said Schmidt.

There is still a long journey ahead, Schmidt emphasised, adding that this means embracing EU standards, aligning policies, and strengthening the functionality and accountability of institutions, but that a “crucial milestone has been achieved.”

“After decades of broken promises and disappointments, there is momentum. Seize this opportunity. BiH can and will be part of the European family. That is where it belongs. Progress can happen if the necessary reforms are implemented, and the time of blockades is over for good. Remember, no one has the right to block the future of this country and its citizens,” Schdmit underlined.

He also expressed the pleasure that the integrity of the election process has been improved, though it is “still far from perfect.” As for his earlier decision to amend the electoral legislation, he said its purpose was to contribute to this improvement, and to make sure that voters and the choices they made on the ballot are respected.

“Other improvements are yet to be introduced, such as new technologies that will ensure faster vote counting and help prevent election fraud,” the High Representative has announced, adding that the measures must be introduced to “enable citizens’ participation, especially youth participation, in the work of institutions and the decision-making process.”

The basis for this in the Federation (FBiH), one of two Bosnia's semi-autonomous entities, according to Schmidt, has already been provided by his October decision.

“Institutions on other levels should follow suit,” he added.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a chance to do better, Schmidt stressed, adding that he is convinced that most people are tired of the cliché of BiH as a chaotic, dysfunctional Balkan state.

“My message to the people of BiH is: make your politicians keep their promise to shape a country that is worth living in, give your children a perspective, a reason to stay, and a real opportunity to thrive and prosper,” he said.