UK special envoy reaffirms support for Bosnia during first official visit

Appointed in February 2024, Dame Karen Pierce, one of the UK’s most experienced diplomats, succeeded Air Chief Marshal The Lord Peach in this role. During her visit, she held high-level discussions with members of the BiH Presidency, the Chair of the Council of Ministers, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reinforcing the UK's dedication to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s security and democratic progress.

Call for Political Stability and EU Integration

Dame Karen Pierce highlighted the importance of domestic political resolution amid BiH’s current political challenges, stressing that the country has the necessary institutions and mechanisms to address ongoing issues.

“The UK remains fully committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I am visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina in a moment of political crisis. It is important to underline that BiH has the institutions and mechanisms to respond to this crisis. An early domestic resolution will enable further progress on the country’s EU path. For our part, the UK will continue to support BiH in fulfilling its Euro-Atlantic aspirations,” said Dame Karen Pierce," she stated.

As part of regional cooperation efforts, Dame Karen Pierce met with Amer Kapetanovic, Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council, to discuss objectives for the upcoming Berlin Process summit, which the UK will host this autumn. The summit aims to enhance stability, security, and economic collaboration among Western Balkans leaders.

Engagement with civil society and religious leaders

Beyond political discussions, Dame Karen Pierce also met with human rights defenders, journalists, and project partners engaged in UK-backed initiatives to promote democratic values and social development in BiH.

In a separate meeting with leaders of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s major religious communities, she encouraged interfaith cooperation to reduce political tensions and build trust among different communities.

“Preserving peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina is paramount. Religious leaders have a crucial role to play in fostering unity and addressing divisions,” she emphasized.

Her visit underscores the UK's active diplomatic engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina, reinforcing its role as a key international partner in BiH’s stability and future progress.