Tineke Strik: EU must respond more consistently to Dodik

Strik emphasized that the actions of Republika Srpska (RS) entity President Milorad Dodik must be viewed in the context of his secessionist ambitions and his attempts to turn RS into an autocratic entity. In her opinion, Europe must respond more consistently, as such moves directly distance Bosnia and Herzegovina from European integration.

"It is crucial to ensure the safety of citizens and avoid a violent resolution of the current situation in BiH. However, at the same time, it is imperative to detain Milorad Dodik. This should be carried out by domestic institutions, and if necessary, with the support of EUFOR," Strik stressed.

She recalled that while there have been numerous condemnations of Dodik’s actions and support for the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, concrete measures have been lacking. According to her, Brussels must send clear and unequivocal messages of support for BiH’s integration and strengthen mechanisms for sanctioning those who threaten the country’s territorial integrity.

The European Parliament member emphasized that the EU has tools based on the “carrot and stick” principle, which must be applied more decisively. She also stated that any attempt at mediation by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic would be a failure and that the European Union must not allow the relativization of destabilizing actions in BiH.

Tineke Strik criticized the current stance of high-ranking European officials, particularly EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, arguing that there is currently insufficient political will within the European Commission to clearly support democratic forces in BiH, including civil society organizations.

She announced that she is collecting signatures for a letter addressed to Kaja Kallas, demanding stricter measures against anti-democratic forces in BiH. Additionally, she and her like-minded colleagues are working to form a coalition within the EU, enabling individual states to take a more active role in sanctioning destabilizing actors in the region.

During her speech, Strik described the protests in Serbia as an encouraging sign, emphasizing that they represent a long-term positive change for Bosnia and Herzegovina as well. She also expressed support for the protests in Hungary, stating that both in Serbia and Hungary, the uprisings are directed against regimes aligned with Russian President Vladimir Putin.